From my Manila Standard Column Game Winner 12/04/09
I’m a heavy twitter user. For those of you who are not familiar yet, it’s a 140-character micro blog known as tweets which can be read by ones subscribers or followers. These text-based posts have changed social networking as we know it, enabling the users to exchange information and ideas to potentially millions around the planet straight away.
Twitter is used as an information tool, a business and technological support, and even a way to release pent up emotions. It can be a window to someone’s life at the moment– intimate and instant. It can be used for social responsibility or to increase public awareness. In the political landscape, it’s been a medium for propaganda and a platform for integrity.
One of the many benefits of twitter is that it allows personalities such as Ashton Kutcher, Britney Spears, Al Gore, and even the grand daddy of the NBA twitters Shaquille O’Neil and a long list of other NBA players connect with millions of admirers from all parts of the globe.
There are a number of PBA players that use twitter too. Alaska Aces have Joe de Vance, Brandon Cablay, LA Tenorio and even Coach Tim Cone. Talk and Text has Jimmy Alapag, Nic Belasco, Harvey Carey and Jared Dillinger. Gin Kings Paolo Bugia and Erik Menk, as well as their assistant coaches Allan Caidic and Juno Sauler tweet their 2 cents worth. In-laws and fellow Realtors Lamont Waters and Kelly Williams, Coca Cola’s Wesley Gonzales and San Miguel’s Dondon Hontiveros are on the list as well as Elastopainters’ Asst. Coach Richard Del Rosario and Gabe Norwood.
These PBA personalities tweet about practices, upcoming games, results, post-game take, and even personal views on just about everything – from video games, food, newest kicks, and family. You can learn so much by following these tweeps.
Coach Tim Cone had tweets about the salary cap, Gonzales made known his transfer to Coke, Hontiveros shared his 5,000th point milestone, and Williams proudly announced the birth of his son Charles. Norwood and Dillinger tweeted about their experiences with the national team, while Alapag has recently tweeted about their amazing comeback from a 30-point hole against Burger King and also their loss the next game to Rain or Shine.
A few months back, the NBA has sent out a guideline that prohibits players, coaches and other team personnel to access Twitter, Facebook and similar social media sites from 45 minutes before the opening tip till after they’ve fulfilled their obligation to be available to the media after the game. There are no such rules in the PBA and honestly, there’s no need for it as of the moment. These personalities on twitter know their boundaries and are responsible enough.
Commissioner Sonny Barrios simply sees it as “a powerful tool in terms of interacting with the fans”. And fan interaction is one of the many things the league is seeking to improve on. “The NBA had to take a stand when it started getting in the way of playing. But how can we avoid a non-positive aspect of twitter? Do we have authority to impose ‘traffic rules’ on that?” Commissioner Barrios added that the PBA would like to be as liberal as possible but still with certain parameters in mind.
The PBA and the teams should encourage MORE players to get into tweeting. They can harness more fans, drum up excitement, publicize information, play up rivalries, and increase their marketability. Players need not go through mainstream social media to get their messages across to their fans - the lifeblood of the league.
Imagine being able to ask Coach Tim about being on top of the standings, or asking Belasco about the inconsistencies of the team. Catch the tweets about Menk’s pre-game rituals, or just exchange jokes and frustrations with Gonzales. Twitter has made the superstars more human, more reachable, more accessible, and honestly more likeable.
NOT ABOUT SPORTS
So many people are asking for suggestions on what to give out for Christmas. Here's one idea I got from a cousin in law. Read the article below which I wrote for www.buysalubong.com after the last holidays.
The Pass It On Gift
By Patricia “Shaan” Bermudez-Hizon
What was the best present you got for Christmas? I really honestly liked the new mountain-biking gloves I got from my husband. I have enough calluses from riding that bike on 20-kilometer trips 4 or 5 times a week. I lost weight, I got stronger, but my palms are as smooth as that of a construction worker! I also love the white Coach sandals I got and the Kenneth Cole bag. Vince and the kids also received a bunch of awesome gifts. Santa gave the boys a basketball net complete with an adjustable goal post, and all the techie kiddy educational toys and the books that they got from godparents, relatives, friends and other people that just found them too cute to resist. As a family, we adore the piano my mom gave us which will definitely enrich our love for music.
]
But despite all these gifts that were downright awesome, we got one very special gift from Vince’s relatives. This couple was one of the secondary sponsors at our wedding. They continue to be such an inspiration to us and to those who know them. Tito and Sabrina sent their gift in a palengke mesh bag which immediately caught my eye. I’m a fan of anything recycled and reused, and that palengke mesh bag would’ve come in handy. Initial reaction: brilliant!
I immediately read the card which didn’t have the canned Christmas greeting. The card read that it was a “Pass It On Gift.”
“This is a ‘PASS IT ON’ gift. In lieu of a Christmas gift for you, we prepared a ‘Noche Buena’ food package for a needy person… a street vendor, a construction worker, a carpenter, a painter… any person who does not receive a regular salary and 13th month pay… someone who may have nothing to feed his family for Christmas if he is not able to sell anything or have any work that day. We hope that the happy surprise you see on his face when you ‘pass on’ this package will fill your heart with joy, fulfillment and gratitude to the Lord for so much blessings given to you and your family. A Blessed Christmas to you and yours!”
My heart melted. This was the best gift!
The colorful palengke mesh bag had a kilo of rice, a champorado mix, a can of carne norte, luncheon meat and a bag of yummy choc-nut. It was enough to make a family dwelling on the streets, or a child begging for food, a woman living under a bridge, or a man selling candies at the corner to have a filling feast for Christmas.
I honestly was touched by the gesture and the sheer brilliance of the gift. I know how good it feels to reach out to the needy as I’ve dedicated almost a decade of my life doing charity work through my “Everyday Is Your Birthday Foundation” and my husband’s “Vince Hizon Foundation.” We’ve been trying to instill the virtues of giving and volunteerism in people who would lend us their ear and are willing to work with us. But a lot of times though, it is difficult to mobilize people to get up and help. I’ve experienced one Christmas where we gave away cards that said we donated to a foundation on their behalf, and made the Yuletide special for so many orphans as we gave them gifts, food and medicine. But I never really figured out how the recipients felt or if it made enough of an impact to move them to help the needy some more.
Sabrina and Tito’s gift is the best way to start a revolution of giving. I always say that a person is influenced once they see how their efforts make a less fortunate individual feel. My foundation encourages people to personally celebrate with the less fortunate and be with them; and not merely sign checks for them and not have to see them. In our own simple way, we’ve had so many people pay it forward after the initial outreach with us. And that’s all part of our goal: to move people to help. Volunteerism.
This “Pass It On” gift does more than just put a smile on a street dweller, a beggar, or a construction worker’s face and food in their stomachs. This “Pass It On” fills the heart and opens ones eyes to reality.
It’s my first time to get such a gift. I hope they wouldn’t mind it if we duplicate their brilliant gift idea. It’s one of the best ways to pass on God’s blessings and love. That’s what Christmas is all about. That’s what being human is all about.
The Pass It On Gift
By Patricia “Shaan” Bermudez-Hizon
What was the best present you got for Christmas? I really honestly liked the new mountain-biking gloves I got from my husband. I have enough calluses from riding that bike on 20-kilometer trips 4 or 5 times a week. I lost weight, I got stronger, but my palms are as smooth as that of a construction worker! I also love the white Coach sandals I got and the Kenneth Cole bag. Vince and the kids also received a bunch of awesome gifts. Santa gave the boys a basketball net complete with an adjustable goal post, and all the techie kiddy educational toys and the books that they got from godparents, relatives, friends and other people that just found them too cute to resist. As a family, we adore the piano my mom gave us which will definitely enrich our love for music.
]
But despite all these gifts that were downright awesome, we got one very special gift from Vince’s relatives. This couple was one of the secondary sponsors at our wedding. They continue to be such an inspiration to us and to those who know them. Tito and Sabrina sent their gift in a palengke mesh bag which immediately caught my eye. I’m a fan of anything recycled and reused, and that palengke mesh bag would’ve come in handy. Initial reaction: brilliant!
I immediately read the card which didn’t have the canned Christmas greeting. The card read that it was a “Pass It On Gift.”
“This is a ‘PASS IT ON’ gift. In lieu of a Christmas gift for you, we prepared a ‘Noche Buena’ food package for a needy person… a street vendor, a construction worker, a carpenter, a painter… any person who does not receive a regular salary and 13th month pay… someone who may have nothing to feed his family for Christmas if he is not able to sell anything or have any work that day. We hope that the happy surprise you see on his face when you ‘pass on’ this package will fill your heart with joy, fulfillment and gratitude to the Lord for so much blessings given to you and your family. A Blessed Christmas to you and yours!”
My heart melted. This was the best gift!
The colorful palengke mesh bag had a kilo of rice, a champorado mix, a can of carne norte, luncheon meat and a bag of yummy choc-nut. It was enough to make a family dwelling on the streets, or a child begging for food, a woman living under a bridge, or a man selling candies at the corner to have a filling feast for Christmas.
I honestly was touched by the gesture and the sheer brilliance of the gift. I know how good it feels to reach out to the needy as I’ve dedicated almost a decade of my life doing charity work through my “Everyday Is Your Birthday Foundation” and my husband’s “Vince Hizon Foundation.” We’ve been trying to instill the virtues of giving and volunteerism in people who would lend us their ear and are willing to work with us. But a lot of times though, it is difficult to mobilize people to get up and help. I’ve experienced one Christmas where we gave away cards that said we donated to a foundation on their behalf, and made the Yuletide special for so many orphans as we gave them gifts, food and medicine. But I never really figured out how the recipients felt or if it made enough of an impact to move them to help the needy some more.
Sabrina and Tito’s gift is the best way to start a revolution of giving. I always say that a person is influenced once they see how their efforts make a less fortunate individual feel. My foundation encourages people to personally celebrate with the less fortunate and be with them; and not merely sign checks for them and not have to see them. In our own simple way, we’ve had so many people pay it forward after the initial outreach with us. And that’s all part of our goal: to move people to help. Volunteerism.
This “Pass It On” gift does more than just put a smile on a street dweller, a beggar, or a construction worker’s face and food in their stomachs. This “Pass It On” fills the heart and opens ones eyes to reality.
It’s my first time to get such a gift. I hope they wouldn’t mind it if we duplicate their brilliant gift idea. It’s one of the best ways to pass on God’s blessings and love. That’s what Christmas is all about. That’s what being human is all about.
RETIRING THE GREATS
From my Manila Standard Column - GAME WINNER - 11/27/09
Last week, I wrote about how the 39 year-old, 16 year veteran, Johnny Abbarientos is getting another chance to revive his shelved PBA career. Because of the slew of injuries on the Ginebra line up, they gave Johnny A. a month’s contract which required him to get his GAB license and other permits necessary with the league to be reactivated. Does this mean that after he’s done with this contract he’ll be a free agent? Will he go back to being a member of the Gin King’s coaching staff? Or will a taste of the action make him quench for more?
When the time comes that Ginebra slides Abbarientos back to the reserves list (which might not happen anytime soon with the new injuries on Celino Cruz and Jay Jay Helterbrand), will he retire? Are there other teams out there that could use the veteran leadership he brings? Wouldn’t it be more fitting if Alaska would be the last team he’d suit up for and they retire his jersey?
On that note, I decided to call the ever so accommodating Alaska Team Manager and PBA Governor Wacky Trillo to ask why no one uses jersey # 14 (Abbarientos), #6 (Lastimosa) and #16 (Hawkins)? I wondered if they had a rule against using the numbers of some of the greatest Aces they’ve had and if they retired their numbers within the organization.
He said it was purely coincidental or perhaps an unspoken decree in the team that no one touches those numbers. Alaska has retired 2 players; one of the best of all time Bogs Adornado (#33) in 1988, and the one of the best imports ever Sean Chambers (#20) during the 2001 Governor’s Cup.
“I’ve actually spoken to Mr. Fred Uytengsu about retiring Johnny with Alaska. We feel it’s befitting with all championships he has given us. We’ve considered getting him back even just for a short while”, shared Mr. Trillo.
Greats like Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, Allan Caidic, Benjie Paras, Jerry Codinera, Alvin Patrimonio are some that have had their numbers retired by their teams. But I ask if there are any formal guidelines on retiring players by the PBA itself? So I called Commissioner Sonny Barrios, who is always on the move.
He says there is a need to institutionalize this, as was brought up by Governor Buddy Encarnado in a previous meeting. They expect to come up with guidelines very soon which should include taking career achievements into consideration. “But before planning any ceremonies, a player must first state his retirement”, says Comm. Barrios, “this is why Senator Jaworski hasn’t been formally retired because he never really proclaimed his retirement”.
But Commissioner shared that last season, they already had formal talks with the “Living Legend” about a formal retirement ceremony. Plans were already underway but schedules just wouldn’t permit. “But this might happen soon”. And when this does, it’ll be another stellar PBA moment, that’s for sure.
Maybe, by the time Johnny Abarrientos hangs up his basketball shoes (in a year or two if he had things his way), a wonderful ceremony befitting a hard court hero like himself would be put together to hang up his jersey and retire his number for all of us basketball mortals to honor and forever remember.
Last week, I wrote about how the 39 year-old, 16 year veteran, Johnny Abbarientos is getting another chance to revive his shelved PBA career. Because of the slew of injuries on the Ginebra line up, they gave Johnny A. a month’s contract which required him to get his GAB license and other permits necessary with the league to be reactivated. Does this mean that after he’s done with this contract he’ll be a free agent? Will he go back to being a member of the Gin King’s coaching staff? Or will a taste of the action make him quench for more?
When the time comes that Ginebra slides Abbarientos back to the reserves list (which might not happen anytime soon with the new injuries on Celino Cruz and Jay Jay Helterbrand), will he retire? Are there other teams out there that could use the veteran leadership he brings? Wouldn’t it be more fitting if Alaska would be the last team he’d suit up for and they retire his jersey?
On that note, I decided to call the ever so accommodating Alaska Team Manager and PBA Governor Wacky Trillo to ask why no one uses jersey # 14 (Abbarientos), #6 (Lastimosa) and #16 (Hawkins)? I wondered if they had a rule against using the numbers of some of the greatest Aces they’ve had and if they retired their numbers within the organization.
He said it was purely coincidental or perhaps an unspoken decree in the team that no one touches those numbers. Alaska has retired 2 players; one of the best of all time Bogs Adornado (#33) in 1988, and the one of the best imports ever Sean Chambers (#20) during the 2001 Governor’s Cup.
“I’ve actually spoken to Mr. Fred Uytengsu about retiring Johnny with Alaska. We feel it’s befitting with all championships he has given us. We’ve considered getting him back even just for a short while”, shared Mr. Trillo.
Greats like Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, Allan Caidic, Benjie Paras, Jerry Codinera, Alvin Patrimonio are some that have had their numbers retired by their teams. But I ask if there are any formal guidelines on retiring players by the PBA itself? So I called Commissioner Sonny Barrios, who is always on the move.
He says there is a need to institutionalize this, as was brought up by Governor Buddy Encarnado in a previous meeting. They expect to come up with guidelines very soon which should include taking career achievements into consideration. “But before planning any ceremonies, a player must first state his retirement”, says Comm. Barrios, “this is why Senator Jaworski hasn’t been formally retired because he never really proclaimed his retirement”.
But Commissioner shared that last season, they already had formal talks with the “Living Legend” about a formal retirement ceremony. Plans were already underway but schedules just wouldn’t permit. “But this might happen soon”. And when this does, it’ll be another stellar PBA moment, that’s for sure.
Maybe, by the time Johnny Abarrientos hangs up his basketball shoes (in a year or two if he had things his way), a wonderful ceremony befitting a hard court hero like himself would be put together to hang up his jersey and retire his number for all of us basketball mortals to honor and forever remember.
JOHNNY A.
FROM MY MANILA STANDARD COLUMN 11/20/09
No doubt, Johnny Abarrientos is one of the greatest that ever played in the PBA. From being drafted over 16 years ago by the Alaska Milkmen, he has amassed numerous accolades including the 1996 MVP plum, 23 finals appearances and 13 championships with the different teams he has journeyed with.
He has been contracted by the Bgy. Ginebra Gin Kings as a member of the coaching staff after he was removed from the active roster due to his nagging patello femoral pain as one of the reasons. It was a role he embraced and was grateful for because he had a knack for taking the young superstars under his wings and providing them with guidance only a player as great as he can give.
A great opportunity presented itself last Friday November 6. With Jay Jay Helterbrand sidelined due to knee issues adding to the list of injured Kings like Junthy Valenzuela and Mark Caguioa, Johnny Abbarientos’ number was called up once again. His reactivation was announced 2 days prior to the date with the Barako Bulls in Cuneta but he’s kept himself in shape enough to be able to come up with 6 assists, 4 rebounds and a steal in 11 minutes of action. Very impressive for a 39 year old point guard who last played in a PBA game about a year ago.
But the Flying A must’ve have had his Friday the 13th a week in advance because a freak accident off a collision with Paolo Hubalde in the 3rd quarter ripped his left pointer finger, causing the bone to pop out, lacerating his skin at that. He was taken to the hospital while Ginebra was drubbing The Energy Boosters in the 2nd half.
“The first thing that came to my mind was that I was thankful that this (broken finger) is all that happened, but still I was very disappointed”, said Abarrientos. He was looking forward to making the most out of the 2-game opportunity that was given to him by Coach Jong Uichico.
He recalled how pressured he was to not disappoint not just the team but the fans. “I left them with a certain image. I was speedy and aggressive. I wanted to pick up exactly where I left off and show the fans the same speed and aggressiveness”. The pain brought about by the injured finger was overshadowed by the frustration of not being able to play again.
When asked if the freak accident is a sign for him to retire, he wouldn’t have any of it. “I know I still have one or two years left in me, should I be given the opportunity”. He feels he can still compete at this level and contend with the young guns. “Basketball is the same, but the decision making of a veteran is what will matter. Not 2nd guessing decisions come through experience. This is the reason why there are still a lot of veterans that get asked to play because they know what to do”.
It’ll take a few more days for the finger to fully heal and the great news is that Johnny will soon take flight again. With Caguioa needing about 3 to 4 more weeks, Valenzuela just starting to run, then a new reported injury on Sunday Salvacion, the Gin Kings are still be in need of Abarientos’ services. He would split minutes with Celino Cruz and rookie Kevin White, and most probably, Ginebra would slide Helterbrand to the 2 spot like they did when they still had Paul Artadi and Chris Pacana.
His players’ contract is for a month, and he had to get his GAB license and other permits necessary with the league to be reactivated as a player. Does this mean that after he’s done this contract he’ll be a free agent? Will he go back to being a member of the Gin King’s coaching staff?
[to be continued next week on manila standard...... will also touch up on retiring jerseys and hanging up the BIG J's number]
No doubt, Johnny Abarrientos is one of the greatest that ever played in the PBA. From being drafted over 16 years ago by the Alaska Milkmen, he has amassed numerous accolades including the 1996 MVP plum, 23 finals appearances and 13 championships with the different teams he has journeyed with.
He has been contracted by the Bgy. Ginebra Gin Kings as a member of the coaching staff after he was removed from the active roster due to his nagging patello femoral pain as one of the reasons. It was a role he embraced and was grateful for because he had a knack for taking the young superstars under his wings and providing them with guidance only a player as great as he can give.
A great opportunity presented itself last Friday November 6. With Jay Jay Helterbrand sidelined due to knee issues adding to the list of injured Kings like Junthy Valenzuela and Mark Caguioa, Johnny Abbarientos’ number was called up once again. His reactivation was announced 2 days prior to the date with the Barako Bulls in Cuneta but he’s kept himself in shape enough to be able to come up with 6 assists, 4 rebounds and a steal in 11 minutes of action. Very impressive for a 39 year old point guard who last played in a PBA game about a year ago.
But the Flying A must’ve have had his Friday the 13th a week in advance because a freak accident off a collision with Paolo Hubalde in the 3rd quarter ripped his left pointer finger, causing the bone to pop out, lacerating his skin at that. He was taken to the hospital while Ginebra was drubbing The Energy Boosters in the 2nd half.
“The first thing that came to my mind was that I was thankful that this (broken finger) is all that happened, but still I was very disappointed”, said Abarrientos. He was looking forward to making the most out of the 2-game opportunity that was given to him by Coach Jong Uichico.
He recalled how pressured he was to not disappoint not just the team but the fans. “I left them with a certain image. I was speedy and aggressive. I wanted to pick up exactly where I left off and show the fans the same speed and aggressiveness”. The pain brought about by the injured finger was overshadowed by the frustration of not being able to play again.
When asked if the freak accident is a sign for him to retire, he wouldn’t have any of it. “I know I still have one or two years left in me, should I be given the opportunity”. He feels he can still compete at this level and contend with the young guns. “Basketball is the same, but the decision making of a veteran is what will matter. Not 2nd guessing decisions come through experience. This is the reason why there are still a lot of veterans that get asked to play because they know what to do”.
It’ll take a few more days for the finger to fully heal and the great news is that Johnny will soon take flight again. With Caguioa needing about 3 to 4 more weeks, Valenzuela just starting to run, then a new reported injury on Sunday Salvacion, the Gin Kings are still be in need of Abarientos’ services. He would split minutes with Celino Cruz and rookie Kevin White, and most probably, Ginebra would slide Helterbrand to the 2 spot like they did when they still had Paul Artadi and Chris Pacana.
His players’ contract is for a month, and he had to get his GAB license and other permits necessary with the league to be reactivated as a player. Does this mean that after he’s done this contract he’ll be a free agent? Will he go back to being a member of the Gin King’s coaching staff?
[to be continued next week on manila standard...... will also touch up on retiring jerseys and hanging up the BIG J's number]
It's official! Dream come true!
It's official. I made it! I'm officially a PBA anchor! The first and the only female to have gotten this far. I'm so thrilled because it's been my dream!
Back in 2002 when NBN got the PBA contract, Edgar Reyes of NBN sports shared with me that it's his dream to have a female basketball anchor on board. He had such high hopes for me and saw in me what I didn't even know I had the potential of doing. It was so powerful.
It instantly became a goal and I was steering myself to that direction.
I put in so much blood, sweat and tears into what may seem likea simple task of courtside reporting. I was hell bent on giving my all, and doing it to the best of my abilities. I was a on a mission. I had so much passion for the game and for my craft, it consumed me at times.
Most of the things I did, I wanted it to be a step towards realizing the dream. Whether I was interviewing a player, introducing the top 10 plays, going inside locker rooms for the pre-game chat, chasing after coaches, invading huddles, my heart was into it. It was my game! That's how I rolled.
It didn't matter what others were doing, saying, or pursuing. I was in my own fight, focused on the prize. I just wanted to be a PBA anchor.
It was hard for me to leave my career behind after Vince and I got married and he got offered to play in the USBL (it's called LOVE). Playing for the Pennsylvania Valleydawgs meant leaving work and even the show that I so loved "In the Zone". Found out I was pregnant when we got there but that didn't deter me from learning. I went to their practice almost everyday (there was nothing much to do in Allentown anyway) and picked up a lot more about the game. Lucky for me Vince was being coached by Chocolate Thunder, Daryl Dawkins. Learned a lot from him in between the suicides he made them do.
After the Valleydawgs, we came back home. I was back doing ITZ till we had Vicente. And because of ITZ, I went back to courtside reporting with ease.
I also covered theV-league (I came up with the name btw) for ABC 5 on the side.
I have to give credit to ABC5 and Miss Sienna Olaso for giving me the opportunity to do PBA radio while I was pregnant with my 2nd child. I couldn't do courtside (who would want to see me in all my 160-pound glory) so they gave me a chance to prove my worth on radio. That was actually my first ever basketball anchoring stint.
Loved doing radio. Tagalog pa kaya astig!
I was covering games till I was 8.5 months pregnant. Had many labor pains during games, it was crazy! I'd be up on my swollen feet, pacing and doing lamaze breathing in the radio booth! What an adventure. I was also juggling a daily show on ABC 5 - Venta5 at that time.
As soon as the baby fat (mine) melted away (kinda), I was back doing courtside. Despite the changes in my life, I was still certain about my dream of becoming a PBA anchor.
Enter Solar sports. I was depressed that I didn't get to do PBA radio, but when God closes the door, he opens this huge window!!! And so he did. PBL came along.
Thanks to Erik Tam for believing in me enough. He made me the first ever female basketball tv anchor in the country! Coach Potit de Vera was my first partner!
Since I wasn't familiar with the PBL, and sadly, wasn't so familiar with college ball, I went to all the team practices a few times. All! I also decided to kill 2 birds with one stone and started writing articles for the PBL website. This helped me become familiar with the PBL. It was a great PBL season and I'm looking forward to covering it again, if given the opportunity.
I guess Solar saw enough potential in me to let me cover the FIBA Asia championships. Not to take anything away from the PBL but I guess covering the FIBA-Asia gave me a much bigger audience. I took every amount of criticism to heart and worked from there. I researched, I put in so much extra work, etc. I was so scared to cover my first game, ask Coach Ronnie Magsanoc.
All these opportunities have led me to this. The PBA.
I know I still have sooo much to learn and so many things to improve on. Trust me, I think about how I can be better every day.
It helps to have a very supportive husband who has helped me be more knowledgeable in the sport by constantly challenging me, arguing with me and just watching ball with me over beer! We make bets against each other, we argue about calls, etc. Ours is a fun household specially come playoff time! Vince is also my basketball coach, making me run suicides, giving me shooting drills, playing one on one in the park. I'm looking forward to building our basketball court in the backyard so I can school him! (not)
This is gonna sound like some sort of an acceptance speech but i'd like to thank my family (hahahahahaha). Thanks mom and dad for making me tough, you didn't mean to but it happened. My kuya who was obsessed with basketball and football made me a bit boyish growing up. My lil brother who taught me how to box - I was always kicking his butt. And my dear sister. My rock. Enough said.
Growing up, I played all sorts of sports, from street hockey to basketball in school. Was a swimmer when I was younger, have a blue belt in Taekwondo, played flag football, now I ride my mountain bike with guys, and if it wasn't for my knee injury, I'd run a 10k faster than my 1h14m record. Loved all sorts of sports, even figure skating and get this... curling!!!! (sweeeeep!) I tried all sorts of sports, specially outdoor / extreme sports from windsurfing, surfing, rock climbing, diving, etc. thanks to Lakbay TV and Living Asia. Speaking of the great outdoors, I love playing golf. I bomb my 2nd shots and bad around the greens, but I'm great with my driver (R5) and I'm steady with my putts! I'm grateful for being constantly exposed to athletes and sports loving individuals! My own passion is fueled by theirs.
It helps that I have great people to work with and wonderful people to look up to. Mico Halili I think is brilliant. Richard del Rosario keeps me entertained when he covers. Jason Webb arguably is the best analyst right now, just like Alex Compton. Quinito Henson is just...wow... my idol. He puts in so much work, it's admirable. Vitto Lazatin who's intensity keeps me at the edge of my seat. Paolo Trillo and Norman Black -awesome tandem on the court and on board. Danny Francisco, always cool and collect and makes great basketball sense. Then there's the legendary Dr. J. We're not worthy!
There's my ever loyal partner Coach Ronnie Magsanoc. I am so comfortable covering with him, he's such a great person! He's pure jokes too underneath all that seriousness. Magoo Marjon who is a true blue basketball fan and it shows with his enthusiasm and passion. Dominic Uy who is so versatile and great at everything he does - courtside, analyst, race care driver, Kaballah-ist. Chiqui Reyes who is so humble about his greatness. The girls - Marga, Mica, Lia and Cesca - are all so talented! I must also mention Fidel Mangonon III, PBA's head statsman and the one and only pbaologist. You think we know it all? He does. And he makes us better. All the production people make us better too. They're awesome and heaven-sent!
Then there's Sev Sarmenta. He's there when there's a major milestone in my life. He was my partner when I did my first ever sportscasting stint - opening ceremonies of the Sydney Olympics. He was there when I got married - we made him do the reading. He was there when I did the PBL and was very encouraging. He gave me ideas on what to call my first ever column. And now, I find myself turning to him for advise about this whole PBA anchoring stint. Whether he likes it or not, he's my mentor.
Jude Turcuato is no longer with the PBA but he gets special mention because he's one of my best critics. He'll tell it like it is which I appreciate. His wife Tricia is like that too! BFF!
Another source of inspiration are my twitter friends / followers. Seriously! All the support I've gotten through twitter has given me a lot of confidence. Sometimes, at the half, when I'm not so sure if I'm flowing as great as I want, I check my tweets for comments. it really does help - all the good and all the bad. I just take it in and build from there.
I just want to express how grateful I am. I'm living the dream. My dream. I'm lucky.
This is just the beginning. Who knows what lies ahead? The NBA? A coaching job (seriously I want)? Being part of a team's management or the commissioner's office? I really have no idea. But because I was able to make my dream of becoming a PBA anchor come true, I know anything I set my self to do is attainable!
To put two infamous sports tag lines together - IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING. JUST DO IT!
Back in 2002 when NBN got the PBA contract, Edgar Reyes of NBN sports shared with me that it's his dream to have a female basketball anchor on board. He had such high hopes for me and saw in me what I didn't even know I had the potential of doing. It was so powerful.
It instantly became a goal and I was steering myself to that direction.
I put in so much blood, sweat and tears into what may seem likea simple task of courtside reporting. I was hell bent on giving my all, and doing it to the best of my abilities. I was a on a mission. I had so much passion for the game and for my craft, it consumed me at times.
Most of the things I did, I wanted it to be a step towards realizing the dream. Whether I was interviewing a player, introducing the top 10 plays, going inside locker rooms for the pre-game chat, chasing after coaches, invading huddles, my heart was into it. It was my game! That's how I rolled.
It didn't matter what others were doing, saying, or pursuing. I was in my own fight, focused on the prize. I just wanted to be a PBA anchor.
It was hard for me to leave my career behind after Vince and I got married and he got offered to play in the USBL (it's called LOVE). Playing for the Pennsylvania Valleydawgs meant leaving work and even the show that I so loved "In the Zone". Found out I was pregnant when we got there but that didn't deter me from learning. I went to their practice almost everyday (there was nothing much to do in Allentown anyway) and picked up a lot more about the game. Lucky for me Vince was being coached by Chocolate Thunder, Daryl Dawkins. Learned a lot from him in between the suicides he made them do.
After the Valleydawgs, we came back home. I was back doing ITZ till we had Vicente. And because of ITZ, I went back to courtside reporting with ease.
I also covered theV-league (I came up with the name btw) for ABC 5 on the side.
I have to give credit to ABC5 and Miss Sienna Olaso for giving me the opportunity to do PBA radio while I was pregnant with my 2nd child. I couldn't do courtside (who would want to see me in all my 160-pound glory) so they gave me a chance to prove my worth on radio. That was actually my first ever basketball anchoring stint.
Loved doing radio. Tagalog pa kaya astig!
I was covering games till I was 8.5 months pregnant. Had many labor pains during games, it was crazy! I'd be up on my swollen feet, pacing and doing lamaze breathing in the radio booth! What an adventure. I was also juggling a daily show on ABC 5 - Venta5 at that time.
As soon as the baby fat (mine) melted away (kinda), I was back doing courtside. Despite the changes in my life, I was still certain about my dream of becoming a PBA anchor.
Enter Solar sports. I was depressed that I didn't get to do PBA radio, but when God closes the door, he opens this huge window!!! And so he did. PBL came along.
Thanks to Erik Tam for believing in me enough. He made me the first ever female basketball tv anchor in the country! Coach Potit de Vera was my first partner!
Since I wasn't familiar with the PBL, and sadly, wasn't so familiar with college ball, I went to all the team practices a few times. All! I also decided to kill 2 birds with one stone and started writing articles for the PBL website. This helped me become familiar with the PBL. It was a great PBL season and I'm looking forward to covering it again, if given the opportunity.
I guess Solar saw enough potential in me to let me cover the FIBA Asia championships. Not to take anything away from the PBL but I guess covering the FIBA-Asia gave me a much bigger audience. I took every amount of criticism to heart and worked from there. I researched, I put in so much extra work, etc. I was so scared to cover my first game, ask Coach Ronnie Magsanoc.
All these opportunities have led me to this. The PBA.
I know I still have sooo much to learn and so many things to improve on. Trust me, I think about how I can be better every day.
It helps to have a very supportive husband who has helped me be more knowledgeable in the sport by constantly challenging me, arguing with me and just watching ball with me over beer! We make bets against each other, we argue about calls, etc. Ours is a fun household specially come playoff time! Vince is also my basketball coach, making me run suicides, giving me shooting drills, playing one on one in the park. I'm looking forward to building our basketball court in the backyard so I can school him! (not)
This is gonna sound like some sort of an acceptance speech but i'd like to thank my family (hahahahahaha). Thanks mom and dad for making me tough, you didn't mean to but it happened. My kuya who was obsessed with basketball and football made me a bit boyish growing up. My lil brother who taught me how to box - I was always kicking his butt. And my dear sister. My rock. Enough said.
Growing up, I played all sorts of sports, from street hockey to basketball in school. Was a swimmer when I was younger, have a blue belt in Taekwondo, played flag football, now I ride my mountain bike with guys, and if it wasn't for my knee injury, I'd run a 10k faster than my 1h14m record. Loved all sorts of sports, even figure skating and get this... curling!!!! (sweeeeep!) I tried all sorts of sports, specially outdoor / extreme sports from windsurfing, surfing, rock climbing, diving, etc. thanks to Lakbay TV and Living Asia. Speaking of the great outdoors, I love playing golf. I bomb my 2nd shots and bad around the greens, but I'm great with my driver (R5) and I'm steady with my putts! I'm grateful for being constantly exposed to athletes and sports loving individuals! My own passion is fueled by theirs.
It helps that I have great people to work with and wonderful people to look up to. Mico Halili I think is brilliant. Richard del Rosario keeps me entertained when he covers. Jason Webb arguably is the best analyst right now, just like Alex Compton. Quinito Henson is just...wow... my idol. He puts in so much work, it's admirable. Vitto Lazatin who's intensity keeps me at the edge of my seat. Paolo Trillo and Norman Black -awesome tandem on the court and on board. Danny Francisco, always cool and collect and makes great basketball sense. Then there's the legendary Dr. J. We're not worthy!
There's my ever loyal partner Coach Ronnie Magsanoc. I am so comfortable covering with him, he's such a great person! He's pure jokes too underneath all that seriousness. Magoo Marjon who is a true blue basketball fan and it shows with his enthusiasm and passion. Dominic Uy who is so versatile and great at everything he does - courtside, analyst, race care driver, Kaballah-ist. Chiqui Reyes who is so humble about his greatness. The girls - Marga, Mica, Lia and Cesca - are all so talented! I must also mention Fidel Mangonon III, PBA's head statsman and the one and only pbaologist. You think we know it all? He does. And he makes us better. All the production people make us better too. They're awesome and heaven-sent!
Then there's Sev Sarmenta. He's there when there's a major milestone in my life. He was my partner when I did my first ever sportscasting stint - opening ceremonies of the Sydney Olympics. He was there when I got married - we made him do the reading. He was there when I did the PBL and was very encouraging. He gave me ideas on what to call my first ever column. And now, I find myself turning to him for advise about this whole PBA anchoring stint. Whether he likes it or not, he's my mentor.
Jude Turcuato is no longer with the PBA but he gets special mention because he's one of my best critics. He'll tell it like it is which I appreciate. His wife Tricia is like that too! BFF!
Another source of inspiration are my twitter friends / followers. Seriously! All the support I've gotten through twitter has given me a lot of confidence. Sometimes, at the half, when I'm not so sure if I'm flowing as great as I want, I check my tweets for comments. it really does help - all the good and all the bad. I just take it in and build from there.
I just want to express how grateful I am. I'm living the dream. My dream. I'm lucky.
This is just the beginning. Who knows what lies ahead? The NBA? A coaching job (seriously I want)? Being part of a team's management or the commissioner's office? I really have no idea. But because I was able to make my dream of becoming a PBA anchor come true, I know anything I set my self to do is attainable!
To put two infamous sports tag lines together - IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING. JUST DO IT!
“The First Edition” - My first Manila Standard Column release
Valentine’s Day of ’88, during the Nets and the 76ers game, history was made when Leandra Reilly became the first ever female play-by-play announcer for the NBA. Today, women like Reilly have gone through great lengths to bridge the gender gap in sportscasting, particularly basketball sports coverages. Although to this day, male still outnumber female sportscasters, and there’s a disparity between the stature and acceptance, more and more women are still hard-pressed at cracking that glass ceiling.
The reality is “when women call games which do not include female athletes, the listening audience does not accept women sportscasters as readily as men”, wrote Lou Schwarts, a former President of the Association of Sportscasters of America. We have the same realities here on our home turf. How many female commentators do we have calling the girl-powered V-League? More than half. And how many female commentators do we have calling local basketball games? Well, I’ll let you ponder on that question a little while longer.
ESPN, was the first network in the US to hire women sports commentators. Gayle Gardner in 1983 eventually became a fixture in baseball coverages as was her ruby red lipstick. The global sports giant is noted for its continuous effort of hiring females to be “on the ball”. Its trailblazing effort has given females a global audience and a path to acceptance, although it’s still a long and rough road ahead.
Robin Roberts comes to mind when it comes to breaking barriers. She has made her mark as a female anchor for “Sports Center”, the “Wide World of Sports” and the WNBA games. She’s also one of the lively hosts of Good Morning America up to now, and is a breast cancer survivor and advocate.
Hannah Storm Hicks also went off the beaten path and became the first ever female play-by-play announcer of the WNBA in 1997 after her stint as host of “NBA Showtime” and as a game reporter.
The hardworking former basketball player and coach, Doris Burke is the only broadcaster, male or female, to cover men's and women's college basketball games in the US. She gives color commentary for the WNBA and NBA games and also moonlights as a sideline reporter.
If Burke was the first female analyst for an NBA game, the first one to do it in a nationally televised NBA game in November 1996, was Cheryl Miller. Already enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame, Miller is one of the most notable courtside reporters of the NBA. She was also the General Manager and Head Coach of the Phoenix Mercury.
In the mid-90s, Michele Tafoya was inked in history books as the first woman to call television play-by-play for the US NCAA basketball games. She was a sideline reporter for the National Football League and the NBA till she resigned October last year to have more time for her family.
Also covering the NFL and the NBA is Lisa Salters who made waves anchoring the 2007 NBA Championships on radio. At 5’2” she was one of the shortest guards in her college’s history when she stomped their grounds in the late 80s, but decades later, she stands tall as an accomplished sportscaster.
These are just some women who have broken ground and have helped elevate the level of respect for females in the industry. I dedicate the first edition of this column to these women and all others who have cracked the glass ceiling. Inspired and empowered I am.
I’ve made references only to some of the American female basketball commentators. This is because here in the Philippines, it is only today, the 6th day of November that a female anchor will debut in a live telecast of a PBA game. Watch the Alaska-Burger King tiff live on CS-9 and wish ME luck.
Since my sportscasting debut in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, I’ve been blessed to have had the opportunity to cover a plethora of international and national sporting events, including the PBA as a courtside reporter. After being the first female for PBA Radio, the first female for the PBL, I now seal the deal to my dream. With 2 out of town games under my belt, today I cover my first ever live PBA game.
Join me throughout this journey and watch me crack the glass ceiling.
The reality is “when women call games which do not include female athletes, the listening audience does not accept women sportscasters as readily as men”, wrote Lou Schwarts, a former President of the Association of Sportscasters of America. We have the same realities here on our home turf. How many female commentators do we have calling the girl-powered V-League? More than half. And how many female commentators do we have calling local basketball games? Well, I’ll let you ponder on that question a little while longer.
ESPN, was the first network in the US to hire women sports commentators. Gayle Gardner in 1983 eventually became a fixture in baseball coverages as was her ruby red lipstick. The global sports giant is noted for its continuous effort of hiring females to be “on the ball”. Its trailblazing effort has given females a global audience and a path to acceptance, although it’s still a long and rough road ahead.
Robin Roberts comes to mind when it comes to breaking barriers. She has made her mark as a female anchor for “Sports Center”, the “Wide World of Sports” and the WNBA games. She’s also one of the lively hosts of Good Morning America up to now, and is a breast cancer survivor and advocate.
Hannah Storm Hicks also went off the beaten path and became the first ever female play-by-play announcer of the WNBA in 1997 after her stint as host of “NBA Showtime” and as a game reporter.
The hardworking former basketball player and coach, Doris Burke is the only broadcaster, male or female, to cover men's and women's college basketball games in the US. She gives color commentary for the WNBA and NBA games and also moonlights as a sideline reporter.
If Burke was the first female analyst for an NBA game, the first one to do it in a nationally televised NBA game in November 1996, was Cheryl Miller. Already enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame, Miller is one of the most notable courtside reporters of the NBA. She was also the General Manager and Head Coach of the Phoenix Mercury.
In the mid-90s, Michele Tafoya was inked in history books as the first woman to call television play-by-play for the US NCAA basketball games. She was a sideline reporter for the National Football League and the NBA till she resigned October last year to have more time for her family.
Also covering the NFL and the NBA is Lisa Salters who made waves anchoring the 2007 NBA Championships on radio. At 5’2” she was one of the shortest guards in her college’s history when she stomped their grounds in the late 80s, but decades later, she stands tall as an accomplished sportscaster.
These are just some women who have broken ground and have helped elevate the level of respect for females in the industry. I dedicate the first edition of this column to these women and all others who have cracked the glass ceiling. Inspired and empowered I am.
I’ve made references only to some of the American female basketball commentators. This is because here in the Philippines, it is only today, the 6th day of November that a female anchor will debut in a live telecast of a PBA game. Watch the Alaska-Burger King tiff live on CS-9 and wish ME luck.
Since my sportscasting debut in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, I’ve been blessed to have had the opportunity to cover a plethora of international and national sporting events, including the PBA as a courtside reporter. After being the first female for PBA Radio, the first female for the PBL, I now seal the deal to my dream. With 2 out of town games under my belt, today I cover my first ever live PBA game.
Join me throughout this journey and watch me crack the glass ceiling.
CORY AQUINO’S DEATH: 40 DAYS AFTER… IN JAMES YAP’S EYES
Wed, 09/09/2009 - 08:54 from pba website
We are all lucky to have had Cory Aquino, the former president and the mother of Philippine democracy, touch our lives and inspire us one way or another. James Yap was fortunate to have felt her motherly love first hand.
“She was my No. 1 fan. She watched every game, pag nananalo text agad (whenever we’d win, she would text right away), ” shared the 2006 MVP, who gushed over how he experienced his mother-in-law’s genuine love and support. He admired the fact that she was really interested in his basketball endeavors. Even fellow Purefoods TJ Giants guard Peter June Simon as well as other teammates can attest to her enthusiasm.
James reveals that his “Mom” used to even watch the NBA and was a big Larry Bird admirer and a loyal Boston Celtics fan.
“I always thought she understood basketball more than my wife Kris,” recalling how Cory explained to Kris about off nights, and would give her two cents worth about the games. She also often prayed the rosary for her son-in-law and his team.
When James was asked to join the National Team, he had no hesitations to make one of his dreams come true. But there came a time when he was having difficulties balancing his practice schedules for two teams. Mom Cory’s heart-to-heart about serving the country through basketball got him through the challenge and gave him strength to endure the ordeal.
“Kinakamusta nya ang mga practice ko (she would ask how practice went) at pag meron may sakit, or injured kinakamusta nya (she showed concern for the sick and injured players),” explained James, also sharing that even when she was ill, she would still watch and would even feel livelier after won games.
“Before I left for the Jones Cup, nagpaalam ako (I said by goodbye). Sabi nya galingan ko daw (She told me to play well) and wished me luck,” said James, who was told that even when his ‘Mom’ was confined in the hospital, the family would still turn on the TV whenever the team had a game. The family would update Mrs. Aquino and she was showing receptive signs, acknowledging their stories of James’ games.
He cut his Taiwan trip short as he rushed home to be with his beloved family in their most difficult time. “When I got back, tumulo luha ko (I cried). Sabi ko ‘Mom’ andito na ako’ (I told ‘Mom’ I was back). Feeling ko na acknowledge nya pa rin ako (I felt that she acknowledged my presence).”
Like any loving son-in-law, James was overcome with immense sadness when the former President breathed her last last August 1.
Not a few basketball fans wondered if James would still join the Powerade Team Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Championships in Tianjin, China. But even after the memorable 14-hour burial rites which united the entire nation, bright and early the very next day James still embarked on a 10-hour journey for TIanjin and even attended practice as soon as he got there. The next day, they trampled the Japanese squad with Big Game James anchoring the team. Cory power was upon them. He had such an inspired and inspiring performance.
“Puso na lang nag dadala noon against Japan (It was all heard against Japan). I was really thinking of her. It was because of her that I was there,” revealed Yap.
“Kung di nya sinabi na wag mag quit at pag patuloy ang paglaro para sa RP, hindi na lang sana ako pupunta (If she hadn’t told me to not give up and to play for the RP team, I wouldn’t have gone),” he related, recalling how much he just wanted to stay with his family and how tired he was from the wake and burial.
Through all the triumphs and defeats, James kept his mother-in-law’s words and memory in his mind and in his heart to carry him through. In the end, he came back home a better player with pronounced experience and enhanced confidence.
Yap learned so much from Mrs. Aquino and feels eternally blessed for having her as a part of his life. Her kindness was incomparable, he says, and wasn’t at all surprised at the outpouring of love and support.
“Sobrang daming nagmamahal talaga sa kanya. Nakaka inspire (It’s inspiring how well-loved she is),” said James, who is truly grateful for all those who helped in every and any way, and for all those who prayed for his mother-in-law.
40 days after Cory Aquino’s death, James’ brother-in-law, Noynoy, formally announced his decision to heed the people’s clamor, follow in her Mom’s footsteps and run for President in next year’s elections.
But for James Yap, that is already another story. (PBH)
We are all lucky to have had Cory Aquino, the former president and the mother of Philippine democracy, touch our lives and inspire us one way or another. James Yap was fortunate to have felt her motherly love first hand.
“She was my No. 1 fan. She watched every game, pag nananalo text agad (whenever we’d win, she would text right away), ” shared the 2006 MVP, who gushed over how he experienced his mother-in-law’s genuine love and support. He admired the fact that she was really interested in his basketball endeavors. Even fellow Purefoods TJ Giants guard Peter June Simon as well as other teammates can attest to her enthusiasm.
James reveals that his “Mom” used to even watch the NBA and was a big Larry Bird admirer and a loyal Boston Celtics fan.
“I always thought she understood basketball more than my wife Kris,” recalling how Cory explained to Kris about off nights, and would give her two cents worth about the games. She also often prayed the rosary for her son-in-law and his team.
When James was asked to join the National Team, he had no hesitations to make one of his dreams come true. But there came a time when he was having difficulties balancing his practice schedules for two teams. Mom Cory’s heart-to-heart about serving the country through basketball got him through the challenge and gave him strength to endure the ordeal.
“Kinakamusta nya ang mga practice ko (she would ask how practice went) at pag meron may sakit, or injured kinakamusta nya (she showed concern for the sick and injured players),” explained James, also sharing that even when she was ill, she would still watch and would even feel livelier after won games.
“Before I left for the Jones Cup, nagpaalam ako (I said by goodbye). Sabi nya galingan ko daw (She told me to play well) and wished me luck,” said James, who was told that even when his ‘Mom’ was confined in the hospital, the family would still turn on the TV whenever the team had a game. The family would update Mrs. Aquino and she was showing receptive signs, acknowledging their stories of James’ games.
He cut his Taiwan trip short as he rushed home to be with his beloved family in their most difficult time. “When I got back, tumulo luha ko (I cried). Sabi ko ‘Mom’ andito na ako’ (I told ‘Mom’ I was back). Feeling ko na acknowledge nya pa rin ako (I felt that she acknowledged my presence).”
Like any loving son-in-law, James was overcome with immense sadness when the former President breathed her last last August 1.
Not a few basketball fans wondered if James would still join the Powerade Team Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Championships in Tianjin, China. But even after the memorable 14-hour burial rites which united the entire nation, bright and early the very next day James still embarked on a 10-hour journey for TIanjin and even attended practice as soon as he got there. The next day, they trampled the Japanese squad with Big Game James anchoring the team. Cory power was upon them. He had such an inspired and inspiring performance.
“Puso na lang nag dadala noon against Japan (It was all heard against Japan). I was really thinking of her. It was because of her that I was there,” revealed Yap.
“Kung di nya sinabi na wag mag quit at pag patuloy ang paglaro para sa RP, hindi na lang sana ako pupunta (If she hadn’t told me to not give up and to play for the RP team, I wouldn’t have gone),” he related, recalling how much he just wanted to stay with his family and how tired he was from the wake and burial.
Through all the triumphs and defeats, James kept his mother-in-law’s words and memory in his mind and in his heart to carry him through. In the end, he came back home a better player with pronounced experience and enhanced confidence.
Yap learned so much from Mrs. Aquino and feels eternally blessed for having her as a part of his life. Her kindness was incomparable, he says, and wasn’t at all surprised at the outpouring of love and support.
“Sobrang daming nagmamahal talaga sa kanya. Nakaka inspire (It’s inspiring how well-loved she is),” said James, who is truly grateful for all those who helped in every and any way, and for all those who prayed for his mother-in-law.
40 days after Cory Aquino’s death, James’ brother-in-law, Noynoy, formally announced his decision to heed the people’s clamor, follow in her Mom’s footsteps and run for President in next year’s elections.
But for James Yap, that is already another story. (PBH)
K-WILL IS GOD'S WILL
Everyone goes through tests. These challenges are there to build character and strengthen ones faith. Kelly Williams went through the mother of all tests, one that made his will more resilient than it ever was.
During the 2009 All Star week, the North and the South squads were to challenge the Powerade Team Pilipinas with former Rookie of the Year and MVP Kelly Williams proudly donning the national colors. But he was feeling queasy, his stomach cramping during the first of the 3-game, week-long schedule.
“It was like I drank bad water”, recalled Williams who shared that he could not even carry his own bag the next day. From the Davao Airport enroute to Panabo, he asked to be brought to the hotel because his condition was worsening. He was throwing up and could not keep anything down.
“I thought I was going to die,” he said.
It was ironic that when he was going through all this, his wife Erica broke the news that she was pregnant with their first child. But despite his extreme bliss, the malady was consuming him. The next day, April 24, he was flown back to Manila and was taken straight to the Asian Hospital.
“They checked my blood and that’s when they found out about my condition”. Kelly was diagnosed with ITP (idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) a condition of having low platelet count in the blood. Kelly’s platelet count was at 6,000 when the normal count is between 150,000 to 450,000. Platelets or thrombocytes are responsible for formation of blood clots, causing the bleeding process to stop.
“I didn’t understand what the doctors were talking about. I could not understand the severity of this condition”. He was ready to rip off the IV and leave the hospital because he was feeling better. But what the doctor told him hit close to home and made him realize that he was in a life-and-death situation. That if he pushed himself to play ball, and God forbid meet an accident on the court, it could be life-threatening.
He stayed in the hospital for four days, receiving fluids, steroids and all sorts of medication to boost his immune system and had a blood transfusion to stabilize his condition. It was a daunting experience, the least to say, “It was scary”. But he was able to cope with Erica at his side and with all their friends and family showing support and uplifting his spirit.
Williams was in the hospital every week, with his platelet count going up and down. He was also battling fears of not being able to play anymore, with the doctors outlining the possibilities.
All throughout, he was watching the Sta. Lucia Realtors and their predicaments being short handed. He wanted nothing more than to help the team get back on its championship track, so watching them struggle and lose big games was difficult to swallow.
“What was hard is that I had no control over (the disease). It’s not like an injury. And it also came out of nowhere,” he explained.
His mother who was a nurse in the US and is working as a Home Health Care provider came for over a month helping him search for answers on how to best battle this disease. His mother in-law also came and his family from Pampanga was regularly there to give support. He needed all that could get especially because of Erica’s early stages of pregnancy.
“Luckily Lamont’s there,” Kelly revealed.
Lamont Waters, Erica’s brother, is the second round, 17th overall pick this year of the Realtors. He was a United States service man for six years. He was with the US Air Force communications and was even a combat communications officer in Iraq. He’s also one of Kelly’s constant supporters, not just because they’re in-laws, but because they were already friends when they were younger, sharing a dream of playing together in the PBA back when they were balling in Fil-Am tourneys in Detroit.
With a great support system, Kelly “just got to the point where (he) just needed to NOT worry“. But he was still struggling to get some semblance of normalcy in his life.
“I was restricted to the house, couldn’t go to crowded places since my immune system was down. I would just go to the mall very early when no one’s there”, he explained.
Fervent in winning over the illness, Kelly went through the lengthy treatment that tested his resolve. But all the sacrifice yielded positive results. His platelet count is now on the normal range and they’re slowly tapering off the medicines.
The faith of friends and family helped him and Erica stay optimistic. It was all weighing heavily on him, but he learned that they “just have to hold on to the truth of it – that everything is going to be fine and God has a plan”.
When asked how all this has changed him, he says it slowed him down. Since he got in the league, everything was so fast-paced. But with the situation he endured, he was able to slow down and reprioritize things.
Kelly made his first public appearance in the PBA during the Draft last August 2 and went to practice the very next day.
Lamont shared: “He dunked on somebody the second week of practice so he’s not far from where he needs to be.”
“I’m not 100% but I’m in a good playing condition. I’m getting my coordination, timing and I’m dropping weight. I’m getting strong” relayed the 2007-08 MVP. Though he thinks Kelly’s far from where he was, Lamont thinks he can go farther than where he was at before the illness.
“He can be greater than how he was,” Waters said.
“I just hope the team sees the hard work (Kelly) has put in. If anybody’s going to slack, he has the ultimate excuse. But he works so hard,” according to Lamont.
Up until now though, it’s a mental and emotional battle, most especially physically. Not everything is “peaches and cream” and it’s still a daily decision in line with his faith to work hard and focus not on where he is but where he is going.
Friday last week, Kelly suited up in his very first official PBA game six months and two weeks after his last in Victorias City with Powerade Team Piipinas in during All-Star Week. He was all over the court and was his usual awesome self, finishing with 14 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two steals and three shotblocks in 37 minutes of action as Sta. Lucia started the season with a 95-76 massacre of Coca-Cola. He could not have been happier being back to the thing he loves doing most.
Kelly Williams shares that the last four months have been a test. He’s able to see things more clearly now.
“Now it’s all for God. He’s given me this to do. I will remember what he brought me through,” he said.
By Patricia Bermudez-Hizon
During the 2009 All Star week, the North and the South squads were to challenge the Powerade Team Pilipinas with former Rookie of the Year and MVP Kelly Williams proudly donning the national colors. But he was feeling queasy, his stomach cramping during the first of the 3-game, week-long schedule.
“It was like I drank bad water”, recalled Williams who shared that he could not even carry his own bag the next day. From the Davao Airport enroute to Panabo, he asked to be brought to the hotel because his condition was worsening. He was throwing up and could not keep anything down.
“I thought I was going to die,” he said.
It was ironic that when he was going through all this, his wife Erica broke the news that she was pregnant with their first child. But despite his extreme bliss, the malady was consuming him. The next day, April 24, he was flown back to Manila and was taken straight to the Asian Hospital.
“They checked my blood and that’s when they found out about my condition”. Kelly was diagnosed with ITP (idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) a condition of having low platelet count in the blood. Kelly’s platelet count was at 6,000 when the normal count is between 150,000 to 450,000. Platelets or thrombocytes are responsible for formation of blood clots, causing the bleeding process to stop.
“I didn’t understand what the doctors were talking about. I could not understand the severity of this condition”. He was ready to rip off the IV and leave the hospital because he was feeling better. But what the doctor told him hit close to home and made him realize that he was in a life-and-death situation. That if he pushed himself to play ball, and God forbid meet an accident on the court, it could be life-threatening.
He stayed in the hospital for four days, receiving fluids, steroids and all sorts of medication to boost his immune system and had a blood transfusion to stabilize his condition. It was a daunting experience, the least to say, “It was scary”. But he was able to cope with Erica at his side and with all their friends and family showing support and uplifting his spirit.
Williams was in the hospital every week, with his platelet count going up and down. He was also battling fears of not being able to play anymore, with the doctors outlining the possibilities.
All throughout, he was watching the Sta. Lucia Realtors and their predicaments being short handed. He wanted nothing more than to help the team get back on its championship track, so watching them struggle and lose big games was difficult to swallow.
“What was hard is that I had no control over (the disease). It’s not like an injury. And it also came out of nowhere,” he explained.
His mother who was a nurse in the US and is working as a Home Health Care provider came for over a month helping him search for answers on how to best battle this disease. His mother in-law also came and his family from Pampanga was regularly there to give support. He needed all that could get especially because of Erica’s early stages of pregnancy.
“Luckily Lamont’s there,” Kelly revealed.
Lamont Waters, Erica’s brother, is the second round, 17th overall pick this year of the Realtors. He was a United States service man for six years. He was with the US Air Force communications and was even a combat communications officer in Iraq. He’s also one of Kelly’s constant supporters, not just because they’re in-laws, but because they were already friends when they were younger, sharing a dream of playing together in the PBA back when they were balling in Fil-Am tourneys in Detroit.
With a great support system, Kelly “just got to the point where (he) just needed to NOT worry“. But he was still struggling to get some semblance of normalcy in his life.
“I was restricted to the house, couldn’t go to crowded places since my immune system was down. I would just go to the mall very early when no one’s there”, he explained.
Fervent in winning over the illness, Kelly went through the lengthy treatment that tested his resolve. But all the sacrifice yielded positive results. His platelet count is now on the normal range and they’re slowly tapering off the medicines.
The faith of friends and family helped him and Erica stay optimistic. It was all weighing heavily on him, but he learned that they “just have to hold on to the truth of it – that everything is going to be fine and God has a plan”.
When asked how all this has changed him, he says it slowed him down. Since he got in the league, everything was so fast-paced. But with the situation he endured, he was able to slow down and reprioritize things.
Kelly made his first public appearance in the PBA during the Draft last August 2 and went to practice the very next day.
Lamont shared: “He dunked on somebody the second week of practice so he’s not far from where he needs to be.”
“I’m not 100% but I’m in a good playing condition. I’m getting my coordination, timing and I’m dropping weight. I’m getting strong” relayed the 2007-08 MVP. Though he thinks Kelly’s far from where he was, Lamont thinks he can go farther than where he was at before the illness.
“He can be greater than how he was,” Waters said.
“I just hope the team sees the hard work (Kelly) has put in. If anybody’s going to slack, he has the ultimate excuse. But he works so hard,” according to Lamont.
Up until now though, it’s a mental and emotional battle, most especially physically. Not everything is “peaches and cream” and it’s still a daily decision in line with his faith to work hard and focus not on where he is but where he is going.
Friday last week, Kelly suited up in his very first official PBA game six months and two weeks after his last in Victorias City with Powerade Team Piipinas in during All-Star Week. He was all over the court and was his usual awesome self, finishing with 14 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two steals and three shotblocks in 37 minutes of action as Sta. Lucia started the season with a 95-76 massacre of Coca-Cola. He could not have been happier being back to the thing he loves doing most.
Kelly Williams shares that the last four months have been a test. He’s able to see things more clearly now.
“Now it’s all for God. He’s given me this to do. I will remember what he brought me through,” he said.
By Patricia Bermudez-Hizon
THE TWO SIDES OF THE RAGING JAPETH CONTROVERSY
2009 No. 1 overall Draft pick Japeth Aguilar has decided to hold off his professional career and instead play for the Smart-Gilas national team under the wings of Serbian head coach Rajko Toroman. It was a hard decision he made with his father, former PBA player Peter Aguilar, but the young prospect feels he has a destiny to fulfill, donning the national colors.
When Japeth made his initial decision to play for the PBA very clear, Burger King was adamant about signing up Aguilar who coach Yeng Guiao saw as the most promising up and coming big man. It was not at all a surprise that he was picked as the top rookie prospect in the 2009 Draft ceremonies.
Shortly after, he joined the Powerade Team Pilipinas in their quest for glory in the FIBA-Asia Championships in Tianjin. Despite the setbacks, the Philippines had its best finish at eight of 20 teams in years.
There, Japeth got to play six games, averaging 4.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 13.5 minutes. There were speculation that he was hurt after the game against Sri Lanka and that he fell ill which caused him to be sidelined for a number of games, but he claims to have been ready to play particularly in the last two contests, against Jordan and Qatar. It was Guiao’s decision and prerogative, but it was one that did not sit well with Peter Aguilar.
Broadcaster Ronnie Nathanielsz just very recently became Japeth’s new agent and went through the process of getting accredited by the league. He said that “Japeth’s primary desire is to play for the national team”.
Through a phone interview Japeth stands by his decision saying “I just want to play for the Philippines and I believe we can make it to the Olympics”. He went on and discussed how he feels the service he has given wasn’t enough and that he can still offer so much more. He also expressed that he’s aware that this gamble could lead to repercussions, but he’s willing to face all of that. He says he prayed hard for this.
From the beginning, Burger King and incoming PBA Board chairman Lito Alvarez was amenable to lending Aguilar to the Smart Gilas squad whenever they would have international tournaments “but it would be hard and confusing for Japeth”, shared Nathanielsz. Japeth has strong desires to learn under the wings of Toroman, getting inspired by the erstwhile-unseeded Iranian basketball team that Toroman whipped into FIBA Asia Champions and first-time Olympians in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
Another voice of reason that Japeth apparently listens to is fellow former Atenean Chris Tiu who had also helped convince him in joining the cause of playing for flag and country through Smart-Gilas.
Last Wednesday, Japeth along with his sister Mica and brother-in-law had a meeting with Mr. Alvarez who offered the maximum salary three-year salary for a PBA rookie, But Japeth instead handed a letter about his change of heart. It was Nathanielsz who did most of the talking for the young player.
“I was stunned”, shared Mr. Alvarez, “I told Ronnie to keep an open mind and think of the repercussions”. “I also advised them to talk to the father”. But by Thursday, Japeth and his father made the decision final.
Friday, along with Mr. Nathanielsz, Japeth presented himself to PBA Commisioner Sonny Barrios who also gave him a stern warning though on an unofficial basis.
“In deference to Smart Gilas, we have not spoken to them. We wanted to speak to the PBA and Mr. Alvarez first” shared Nathanielsz. He said that they don’t know what the contract will be but SBP gave an offer back in Las Vegas before Japeth came to Manila which is equivalent to the three-year maximum rookie salary in the PBA.
No doubt the Lina Franchise is quite disturbed about this turn of events. If they had known before the Draft that Japeth was not set on going pro just yet, they would have picked someone else and they probably wouldn’t have made certain trades and dampen their hopes of winning their first ever PBA championship.
“We will have to take actions. We wouldn’t have traded Arwind (Santos)”, said Mr. Alvarez. “We also missed several opportunities and many tempting offers from other teams for the No. 1 pick. (Coach) Yeng said he was the missing link and I supported his decision”.
“Not to say anything bad because I’m still hoping he’ll play for the team. But from the start, I made it clear I wasn’t too excited for Japeth because I didn’t get to follow his career unlike Rico Maeirhofer. That’s why I preferred Rico. Nakaka disappoint (It’s very disappointing)” reiterated Mr. Alvarez.
“If the concern of his is not getting enough playing time in Tianjin, it’ll be different here (at Burger King). Japeth was competing with (Asi) Taulava, (Sonny) Thoss and (Mick) Pennisi (for playing time). Plus he got sick”. “He’s still a work in progress”.
Mr. Alvarez reaffirmed that the PBA and Burger King are very supportive of the SBP. “I was an active member of the BAP but I really believed in Mr. Manny Pangilinan so I resigned from the BAP to support SBP”.
“Let’s not put any irritants on this one. He made a decision to apply, he should honor his commitment. This is a 35-year institution and you have to respect and not make a mockery of the rules”.
But Japeth’s camp insists they are not doing anything wrong.
“The PBA constitution and by-laws have no provisions for the right to ban a player for not signing with the team who drafted him,” argued Mr. Nathanielsz. “He can sit out the first year, go back to the team that drafted him the second year, if that doesn’t work out, on the third year he becomes a free agent. Teams have drafted players and not sign them up. It should work both ways. A player should not be sanctioned for not signing with the team that drafted him,” explained Nathanielsz in talking about freedom of choice and how Japeth has chosen to play for his country.
He also cited the case of former San Antonio Spurs David Robinson, who was the top NBA draft pick in 1995. He also chose to hold off on playing professionally for two years after being drafted to finish his US Navy commitments. Robinson decided in the end to join the Spurs for the 1989–90 seasons, and led them to one of the greatest single season turnaround in NBA history at the time. “Just like Robinson, Japeth too wants to serve his country first.”
Japeth’s decision certainly raises a lot of issues that many would debate about, and with still much to be said and discussed. Mr. Alvarez asks “What is the real story behind this because not getting playing time in Tianjin is petty. We can lend him to Gilas when they need him. It could be a lot more than this. I just don’t want this to be a war”.
Japeth Aguilar will leave for the US on Monday to reunite with his family and his fiancée for a few weeks.
There’s the issue of respecting one’s personal decisions, and there’s the issue of violating the agreement with a team. It’s a difficult situation, all sides still having unfinished business.
The good thing is the 2009-2010 PBA season doesn’t open shop until Oct. 11 and there’s lots of time to talk and work things over.
But that is if the people in Aguilar’s camp can be persuaded into changing their minds.
When Japeth made his initial decision to play for the PBA very clear, Burger King was adamant about signing up Aguilar who coach Yeng Guiao saw as the most promising up and coming big man. It was not at all a surprise that he was picked as the top rookie prospect in the 2009 Draft ceremonies.
Shortly after, he joined the Powerade Team Pilipinas in their quest for glory in the FIBA-Asia Championships in Tianjin. Despite the setbacks, the Philippines had its best finish at eight of 20 teams in years.
There, Japeth got to play six games, averaging 4.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 13.5 minutes. There were speculation that he was hurt after the game against Sri Lanka and that he fell ill which caused him to be sidelined for a number of games, but he claims to have been ready to play particularly in the last two contests, against Jordan and Qatar. It was Guiao’s decision and prerogative, but it was one that did not sit well with Peter Aguilar.
Broadcaster Ronnie Nathanielsz just very recently became Japeth’s new agent and went through the process of getting accredited by the league. He said that “Japeth’s primary desire is to play for the national team”.
Through a phone interview Japeth stands by his decision saying “I just want to play for the Philippines and I believe we can make it to the Olympics”. He went on and discussed how he feels the service he has given wasn’t enough and that he can still offer so much more. He also expressed that he’s aware that this gamble could lead to repercussions, but he’s willing to face all of that. He says he prayed hard for this.
From the beginning, Burger King and incoming PBA Board chairman Lito Alvarez was amenable to lending Aguilar to the Smart Gilas squad whenever they would have international tournaments “but it would be hard and confusing for Japeth”, shared Nathanielsz. Japeth has strong desires to learn under the wings of Toroman, getting inspired by the erstwhile-unseeded Iranian basketball team that Toroman whipped into FIBA Asia Champions and first-time Olympians in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
Another voice of reason that Japeth apparently listens to is fellow former Atenean Chris Tiu who had also helped convince him in joining the cause of playing for flag and country through Smart-Gilas.
Last Wednesday, Japeth along with his sister Mica and brother-in-law had a meeting with Mr. Alvarez who offered the maximum salary three-year salary for a PBA rookie, But Japeth instead handed a letter about his change of heart. It was Nathanielsz who did most of the talking for the young player.
“I was stunned”, shared Mr. Alvarez, “I told Ronnie to keep an open mind and think of the repercussions”. “I also advised them to talk to the father”. But by Thursday, Japeth and his father made the decision final.
Friday, along with Mr. Nathanielsz, Japeth presented himself to PBA Commisioner Sonny Barrios who also gave him a stern warning though on an unofficial basis.
“In deference to Smart Gilas, we have not spoken to them. We wanted to speak to the PBA and Mr. Alvarez first” shared Nathanielsz. He said that they don’t know what the contract will be but SBP gave an offer back in Las Vegas before Japeth came to Manila which is equivalent to the three-year maximum rookie salary in the PBA.
No doubt the Lina Franchise is quite disturbed about this turn of events. If they had known before the Draft that Japeth was not set on going pro just yet, they would have picked someone else and they probably wouldn’t have made certain trades and dampen their hopes of winning their first ever PBA championship.
“We will have to take actions. We wouldn’t have traded Arwind (Santos)”, said Mr. Alvarez. “We also missed several opportunities and many tempting offers from other teams for the No. 1 pick. (Coach) Yeng said he was the missing link and I supported his decision”.
“Not to say anything bad because I’m still hoping he’ll play for the team. But from the start, I made it clear I wasn’t too excited for Japeth because I didn’t get to follow his career unlike Rico Maeirhofer. That’s why I preferred Rico. Nakaka disappoint (It’s very disappointing)” reiterated Mr. Alvarez.
“If the concern of his is not getting enough playing time in Tianjin, it’ll be different here (at Burger King). Japeth was competing with (Asi) Taulava, (Sonny) Thoss and (Mick) Pennisi (for playing time). Plus he got sick”. “He’s still a work in progress”.
Mr. Alvarez reaffirmed that the PBA and Burger King are very supportive of the SBP. “I was an active member of the BAP but I really believed in Mr. Manny Pangilinan so I resigned from the BAP to support SBP”.
“Let’s not put any irritants on this one. He made a decision to apply, he should honor his commitment. This is a 35-year institution and you have to respect and not make a mockery of the rules”.
But Japeth’s camp insists they are not doing anything wrong.
“The PBA constitution and by-laws have no provisions for the right to ban a player for not signing with the team who drafted him,” argued Mr. Nathanielsz. “He can sit out the first year, go back to the team that drafted him the second year, if that doesn’t work out, on the third year he becomes a free agent. Teams have drafted players and not sign them up. It should work both ways. A player should not be sanctioned for not signing with the team that drafted him,” explained Nathanielsz in talking about freedom of choice and how Japeth has chosen to play for his country.
He also cited the case of former San Antonio Spurs David Robinson, who was the top NBA draft pick in 1995. He also chose to hold off on playing professionally for two years after being drafted to finish his US Navy commitments. Robinson decided in the end to join the Spurs for the 1989–90 seasons, and led them to one of the greatest single season turnaround in NBA history at the time. “Just like Robinson, Japeth too wants to serve his country first.”
Japeth’s decision certainly raises a lot of issues that many would debate about, and with still much to be said and discussed. Mr. Alvarez asks “What is the real story behind this because not getting playing time in Tianjin is petty. We can lend him to Gilas when they need him. It could be a lot more than this. I just don’t want this to be a war”.
Japeth Aguilar will leave for the US on Monday to reunite with his family and his fiancée for a few weeks.
There’s the issue of respecting one’s personal decisions, and there’s the issue of violating the agreement with a team. It’s a difficult situation, all sides still having unfinished business.
The good thing is the 2009-2010 PBA season doesn’t open shop until Oct. 11 and there’s lots of time to talk and work things over.
But that is if the people in Aguilar’s camp can be persuaded into changing their minds.
MIKE BURTSCHER WHO? HERE’S HIS INSPIRING STORY
Now a few PBA fans looked baffled when the sixth overall pick was named in the 2009 PBA Draft last August 2. Who is Mike Burtscher? There were hardly any surprises in the Draft until his name was called. Even the ones who knew of him were shocked to hear the Alaska Aces pick him over so many other up and coming ballers.
But Burtscher is out to prove his worth and live out his journey that is quickly taking him to the top, but has dragged him deep into the dark valleys.
This is Mike’s story -- a story which will make you understand why he’s got a lot of fight in him. A story that will hopefully inspire you.
Michael Andre Morato Burtscher was born in Switzerland to his Filipina mother, Juliet. He never met his biological father as he abandoned them before he was even born. She left the Philippines with her eventual husband, Rainer Burtscher, and gave birth to Mike on March 8, 1985 in Baden, Switzerland.
Mike always felt alienated by his step dad and step brother which made him a rebellious teen. It didn’t help that he felt his mother was also being treated unfairly. His life crumbled when he once came home from school and found that all of his mother’s belongings were gone and was told that he was not the real son of the only father he ever knew. He then ran away from the house he never really felt was a home. He was only 16 then.
Mike lived with friends and foster homes. He worked odd jobs, and admittedly turned to the dark side.
“I had no money, no home, no family” recalled Mike who was too embarrassed to enumerate the “bad things” he did just to survive.
His life changed when he was once invited by his Turkish friend Baris to a basketball game. Mike, though already a towering 6-footer at that time, never played the sport but he was quickly captivated by it because it gave him an escape.
“Whenever I played ball, I forgot everything. I escaped from reality,” he explained.
Mike enrolled in basketball clinics to compliment his natural athleticism. That’s where he met his new circle of friends, including his best friend David Deady who currently plays college ball in the US.
Finding hope and direction on the basketball court also was the start of his salvation which delivered him to his Christian faith.
They say when the world pushes you down on your knees, you’re in a perfect position to pray. That’s what happened to Mike. When life was at its darkest, he learned to turn to God.
He ended up staying with the family of his very close friend Steve Crayton. They were an African- American family who migrated to Switzerland. They instilled Christianity to Mike and gave him a chance to pursue higher studies at the Clear Water Christian College in Florida. Unfortunately for Mike, the one year that he stayed there didn’t turn out as planned as he couldn’t afford to pay for his school, being just on a partial scholarship. So he went back to Switzerland.
He kept playing basketball and even participated in some Filipino community leagues. There he got close to the Negele family who became his way to come to the Philippines in the hopes of finding his mother whom he hadn’t seen or heard from in four years.
When Mike arrived in the country, all he knew about his mother’s family was that they lived in a place called Bliss, near the floodway project in Pasig. With that bit of information he set off to look for his mother. With courage, determination and faith, he was reunited with his mom.
Soon after he was settled, Mike was invited by a friend to accompany him to watch a basketball game in the posh Greenmeadows subdivision. Mike just thought it was an ordinary pick up game, and had the urge to join in. By half time, Mike quickly grabbed a ball, just like all the other kids watching, and shot around and did a few dunks here and there.
“Some guy went up to me asking me who I was and what I was doing there”. Mike found it odd when that man asked him to come back that Monday and practice with them. Two days after that Friday night, he saw that same team he was watching at the scrimmage game on TV with thousands of adoring fans screaming “Ginebra, Ginebra”. Yes, the man who discovered him was then Barangay Ginebra coach Siot Tanquincen.
He practiced with the team for a week, and it led Coach Siot to recommend the 19 year old to now-Talk ‘N Text assistant coach Nash Racela who was still with San Beda at that time.
“Coach Nash really took care of me” so it was really hard when San Beda changed coaches. Somehow, he got help from coach Franz Pumaren and the DLSU community but he wasn’t able to enroll at La Salle.
By that time, his girlfriend from San Beda, Rita, was pregnant, and that motivated him to pursue a career in the PBL. Coach Franz introduced him to coach Luigi Trillo who was then with the Cebuana L’Huillier. There he met Kelvin Gregorio, Cris Viardo, and Don Dulay. They became the godfathers of his son Darin.
But after Cebuana disbanded, he was picked up by Pharex in the dispersal draft. He moved to Noosa where he got injured, tearing his MCL and is ACL. “People told me I could never play again.”
“I had no money to pay for therapy, and neither did I have money for my family”. So Mike worked at a call center and endured the pain of his knee surgery. When he had enough, he went to see Dr. Raul Canlas who was baffled as to why Mike didn’t come sooner. Mike shared his story with Doc Canlas who was kind enough to help the ailing athlete pro bono. Mike said “if it wasn’t for him…..”. He didn’t need to say more.
After eight months, he was back on the basketball court, as determined as ever and played in Liga Pilipinas which gave him the confidence to apply for the PBA Draft.
“I told myself I’d give it my last shot or I had to think of other means to support my family. If I didn’t make it, at least I tried,” he said.
So focused was Burtscher that he decided to stay with a friend and leave his family for a while during the Draft preparations. He worked out everyday and did whatever he could to have a fair shot at the pros.
“When my name was called, I couldn’t believe it. I was so wobbly. I never expected it. I was prepared to be a free agent and try out for teams. I was so thankful to God,” Burtscher said of his Draft experience at the Market!Market!
Mike shares that coach Luigi probably had a lot to do with him being picked, and he was also told that they like his attitude and work ethic.
“A lot of people are satisfied being in the PBA. For me, this is just the start. People told me I couldn’t do it, but here I am. Nothing is impossible,” said Burtscher, who is expected to play back-up to Sonny Thoss.
It has been said that tough times are there so you can have a good time later on-- and really appreciate it!
With the troubled life Mike led, and the enduring heart that he has, he truly is a survivor, and he’s relishing this chance to fulfill His promise.
“The Bible promises a lot. God knows your heart’s desire. Put Him first and He’ll take care of everything. I want people to know what I have gone through. He changed my life,” Burtscher said.
Indeed, nothing is impossible with the Lord, more so if you really work hard to make your dreams come true. (PBH)
But Burtscher is out to prove his worth and live out his journey that is quickly taking him to the top, but has dragged him deep into the dark valleys.
This is Mike’s story -- a story which will make you understand why he’s got a lot of fight in him. A story that will hopefully inspire you.
Michael Andre Morato Burtscher was born in Switzerland to his Filipina mother, Juliet. He never met his biological father as he abandoned them before he was even born. She left the Philippines with her eventual husband, Rainer Burtscher, and gave birth to Mike on March 8, 1985 in Baden, Switzerland.
Mike always felt alienated by his step dad and step brother which made him a rebellious teen. It didn’t help that he felt his mother was also being treated unfairly. His life crumbled when he once came home from school and found that all of his mother’s belongings were gone and was told that he was not the real son of the only father he ever knew. He then ran away from the house he never really felt was a home. He was only 16 then.
Mike lived with friends and foster homes. He worked odd jobs, and admittedly turned to the dark side.
“I had no money, no home, no family” recalled Mike who was too embarrassed to enumerate the “bad things” he did just to survive.
His life changed when he was once invited by his Turkish friend Baris to a basketball game. Mike, though already a towering 6-footer at that time, never played the sport but he was quickly captivated by it because it gave him an escape.
“Whenever I played ball, I forgot everything. I escaped from reality,” he explained.
Mike enrolled in basketball clinics to compliment his natural athleticism. That’s where he met his new circle of friends, including his best friend David Deady who currently plays college ball in the US.
Finding hope and direction on the basketball court also was the start of his salvation which delivered him to his Christian faith.
They say when the world pushes you down on your knees, you’re in a perfect position to pray. That’s what happened to Mike. When life was at its darkest, he learned to turn to God.
He ended up staying with the family of his very close friend Steve Crayton. They were an African- American family who migrated to Switzerland. They instilled Christianity to Mike and gave him a chance to pursue higher studies at the Clear Water Christian College in Florida. Unfortunately for Mike, the one year that he stayed there didn’t turn out as planned as he couldn’t afford to pay for his school, being just on a partial scholarship. So he went back to Switzerland.
He kept playing basketball and even participated in some Filipino community leagues. There he got close to the Negele family who became his way to come to the Philippines in the hopes of finding his mother whom he hadn’t seen or heard from in four years.
When Mike arrived in the country, all he knew about his mother’s family was that they lived in a place called Bliss, near the floodway project in Pasig. With that bit of information he set off to look for his mother. With courage, determination and faith, he was reunited with his mom.
Soon after he was settled, Mike was invited by a friend to accompany him to watch a basketball game in the posh Greenmeadows subdivision. Mike just thought it was an ordinary pick up game, and had the urge to join in. By half time, Mike quickly grabbed a ball, just like all the other kids watching, and shot around and did a few dunks here and there.
“Some guy went up to me asking me who I was and what I was doing there”. Mike found it odd when that man asked him to come back that Monday and practice with them. Two days after that Friday night, he saw that same team he was watching at the scrimmage game on TV with thousands of adoring fans screaming “Ginebra, Ginebra”. Yes, the man who discovered him was then Barangay Ginebra coach Siot Tanquincen.
He practiced with the team for a week, and it led Coach Siot to recommend the 19 year old to now-Talk ‘N Text assistant coach Nash Racela who was still with San Beda at that time.
“Coach Nash really took care of me” so it was really hard when San Beda changed coaches. Somehow, he got help from coach Franz Pumaren and the DLSU community but he wasn’t able to enroll at La Salle.
By that time, his girlfriend from San Beda, Rita, was pregnant, and that motivated him to pursue a career in the PBL. Coach Franz introduced him to coach Luigi Trillo who was then with the Cebuana L’Huillier. There he met Kelvin Gregorio, Cris Viardo, and Don Dulay. They became the godfathers of his son Darin.
But after Cebuana disbanded, he was picked up by Pharex in the dispersal draft. He moved to Noosa where he got injured, tearing his MCL and is ACL. “People told me I could never play again.”
“I had no money to pay for therapy, and neither did I have money for my family”. So Mike worked at a call center and endured the pain of his knee surgery. When he had enough, he went to see Dr. Raul Canlas who was baffled as to why Mike didn’t come sooner. Mike shared his story with Doc Canlas who was kind enough to help the ailing athlete pro bono. Mike said “if it wasn’t for him…..”. He didn’t need to say more.
After eight months, he was back on the basketball court, as determined as ever and played in Liga Pilipinas which gave him the confidence to apply for the PBA Draft.
“I told myself I’d give it my last shot or I had to think of other means to support my family. If I didn’t make it, at least I tried,” he said.
So focused was Burtscher that he decided to stay with a friend and leave his family for a while during the Draft preparations. He worked out everyday and did whatever he could to have a fair shot at the pros.
“When my name was called, I couldn’t believe it. I was so wobbly. I never expected it. I was prepared to be a free agent and try out for teams. I was so thankful to God,” Burtscher said of his Draft experience at the Market!Market!
Mike shares that coach Luigi probably had a lot to do with him being picked, and he was also told that they like his attitude and work ethic.
“A lot of people are satisfied being in the PBA. For me, this is just the start. People told me I couldn’t do it, but here I am. Nothing is impossible,” said Burtscher, who is expected to play back-up to Sonny Thoss.
It has been said that tough times are there so you can have a good time later on-- and really appreciate it!
With the troubled life Mike led, and the enduring heart that he has, he truly is a survivor, and he’s relishing this chance to fulfill His promise.
“The Bible promises a lot. God knows your heart’s desire. Put Him first and He’ll take care of everything. I want people to know what I have gone through. He changed my life,” Burtscher said.
Indeed, nothing is impossible with the Lord, more so if you really work hard to make your dreams come true. (PBH)
THE BREAK DOWN OF THE GINEBRA-BURGER KING-PUREFOODS MEGA TRADE
The Philippine basketball world has been on a whirlwind ride with provocative player movements, making this one of the most exciting pre-seasons ever. Owe it also to numerous internet forums, blogs and social networks that have been revolutionizing how fans are keeping in step with the developments.
There is a need to simplify the blockbuster trade that transpired day after the 2009 Annual Rookie draft to avoid confusion because I’m telling you some of those you read in the newspapers can sometimes be a little inaccurate.
So here it is.Barangay Ginebra got five (5) players -- Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Paolo Bugia and Celino Cruz fro Purefoods and Cholo Villanueva from Burger King.
Purefoods got Rafi Reavis, Paul Artadi and rookie Chris Timberblake from Barangay Ginebra, and Burger King’s 2010 first and second round Draft picks.
Burger King got rookie Orly Daroya from Barangay Ginebra and Purefoods’ 2012 first and second round Draft picks.
In effect, Purefoods and Burger King have actually swapped first and second round picks in next year’s Draft because the Whoppers acquired the Giants’ selections next year in a deal last week in exchange for Marc PIngris.
More deals are being brokered as you read this article making the upcoming 35th season even more competitive and exceedingly exciting!
(www.twitter.com/patriciahizon) (verified by www.twitter.com/fmango)
There is a need to simplify the blockbuster trade that transpired day after the 2009 Annual Rookie draft to avoid confusion because I’m telling you some of those you read in the newspapers can sometimes be a little inaccurate.
So here it is.Barangay Ginebra got five (5) players -- Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Paolo Bugia and Celino Cruz fro Purefoods and Cholo Villanueva from Burger King.
Purefoods got Rafi Reavis, Paul Artadi and rookie Chris Timberblake from Barangay Ginebra, and Burger King’s 2010 first and second round Draft picks.
Burger King got rookie Orly Daroya from Barangay Ginebra and Purefoods’ 2012 first and second round Draft picks.
In effect, Purefoods and Burger King have actually swapped first and second round picks in next year’s Draft because the Whoppers acquired the Giants’ selections next year in a deal last week in exchange for Marc PIngris.
More deals are being brokered as you read this article making the upcoming 35th season even more competitive and exceedingly exciting!
(www.twitter.com/patriciahizon) (verified by www.twitter.com/fmango)
2009 PBA Draft Day Results and more
1st
Burger King
Japeth Aguilar
A no brainer. BK bent on keeping him because “they want to win a championship and he’s the next dominant big man” (Coach Yeng)
2nd
Belonged to Shell Turbochargers
------
------------------
3rd
Purefoods
Rico Maeirhofer
Coach Ryan says he wanted to get a versatile big man (eventhough he’s already got a bunch of those)
4
Burger King
Christopher Ross
They knew as early as Friday they’d trade him to Coca Cola for Ronjay Buenafe (Rumor has it Ronjay hasn’t been happy… now Gary might not be too thrilled about this.)
5
Rain or Shine
Jervy Cruz
It seems that everyone’s predictions had Jervy going 5th overall. He’ll be great for Coach Caloy’s young squad
6
Alaska
Michael Burscher
There’s a 5 Fil-am / Fil-foreign rule. Burscher would be the 6th. But see, this Fil-Swiss is considered PINOY. He was born in Switzerland but his parents entered his birth certificate in the Philippines’ NSO… Hmmmm. Great foresight mom and dad!
7
Barako Bulls
(via a SLR trade for Gaby Espinas)
Ogie Menor
Will he be the rookie who would get the most playing time? With Barako Bulls’ revamp, Menor could find himself a vital part of the squad… who by the way vehemently DENIES that SMART GILAS will be integrating with them for the coming season as the bailout plan for the financially troubled Photokina Franchise. (source: Tony Chua) IF we do see a Gilas-Barako Bulls merger… I wonder if Menor will still play, specially after he decided against signing with the SBP backed developmental squad.
8
Ginebra
Chris Timberlake
I like this. They do need a steady pure point guard back up. There are rumors of trades which involve Artadi, and getting Timberlake increases the possibility. BTW, let’s all pray for his brother who’s battling with cancer. I swear Chris is such a nice guy.
9
Burger King
Ronnie Matias
This is one guy who coach Yeng would love to have in his lineup. He could be the next bruiser ala Homer Se!
10
San Miguel Beer
James Sena
SMB got a hardworking (semi) big guy who can come off the bench and defend big and small. Something they needed with Ping gone. There are a couple of guys expiring and are negotiating for a higher salary comin’ off a championship. Some might not get renewed because they need to make room for Danny S in their pay roll and they can only squeeze in a rookie they’re not obligated to pay as much.
11
Sta. Lucia
Mark Benitez
Did this surprise you? He played well in the rookie camp, I guess Coach Boyet still need more than just a Gaby Espinas to cover the wing.
12
Barako Bull
Benedict Fernandez
Mico Halili: Part of his contract includes a supply of hair spray and wax… Hahaha.
But seriously, I always thought that Bene would be picked because he emerged as one of the finest 1 – 2 guards from last season’s PBL. He’s got guts (not just because of the pimpin’ hairstyle) and he was one of the go-to guys in a team full of talent. That says a lot about how capable he is.
13
Barako Bull
Edwin Asoro
A lot of people thought he’d go in the first round because of his notoriety as a bruiser in the collegiate and amateur levels. After the draft, he was kicking back with Coach Ariel and a lot of heavy bombers
14
Coke
(Got this from BK)
Francis Allera
I swear I heard some girls scream. He's got lots of work to do to not be the next Lawrence Bonus.
15
Rain or Shine
Marcy Arellano
He made his intentions of going for the draft as early as last year, and was one who turned his back on the Smart Gilas offer. Talking to a lot of coaches, they all had reservations about him. What’s interesting is that Coach Caloy always gets good 2nd round draft picks – Ryan Arana, Jireh Ibanes, and TY Tang. Marcy, you’re next.
16
Alaska
Sean Co
Alaska was already nearing the tip of their salary cap. I wonder if they’ll make room for a Sean Co when they’ve already benched some MUCH better collegiate stars than him
17
Sta. Lucia
Lamont Waters
It was great seeing Kelly Williams after a 3 month long battle with a blood disorder. His weight gain was noticeable but he’ll be reporting for practice tomorrow and KWill will soon be back in flight. He’ll have his wife’s brother Lamont Waters to work out with… Remember when SLR took pride in having an all Filipino lineup. Well, good thing Lamont is really trying so hard to speak, act and BE Pinoy. Good for him. He could be the next Rudy Hatfield.
18
Talk and Text
Kevin White
This is the only pick TNT had in this year’s draft. Coach Chot wasn’t even sure if he was gonna exercise the right to use it… But he did, and they used it on the cat-quick Kevin White, the son of Jimmy Alapag’s elder sister. Kevin’s been practicing with Talk and Text for a while now and Coach Chot likes him enough. But again, that 5 Filam rule. TNT is just not willing to give up any of their current Filams. Hmmmmm.
19
Ginebra
Orly Daroya
Orly Daroya is so versatile, so hardworking. He’s shown tremendous range in the amateurs and in the draft camp. He was really one of the hot names in the scrimmages. Not sure tho if Ginebra has any real use for him. (There are lots of trade rumors going around about this squad.)
20
Coke
(acquired from BK)
John Walsham
Whew! Better late than never!
Asst. Team manager got his wish of getting a 3-4
Burger King
Japeth Aguilar
A no brainer. BK bent on keeping him because “they want to win a championship and he’s the next dominant big man” (Coach Yeng)
2nd
Belonged to Shell Turbochargers
------
------------------
3rd
Purefoods
Rico Maeirhofer
Coach Ryan says he wanted to get a versatile big man (eventhough he’s already got a bunch of those)
4
Burger King
Christopher Ross
They knew as early as Friday they’d trade him to Coca Cola for Ronjay Buenafe (Rumor has it Ronjay hasn’t been happy… now Gary might not be too thrilled about this.)
5
Rain or Shine
Jervy Cruz
It seems that everyone’s predictions had Jervy going 5th overall. He’ll be great for Coach Caloy’s young squad
6
Alaska
Michael Burscher
There’s a 5 Fil-am / Fil-foreign rule. Burscher would be the 6th. But see, this Fil-Swiss is considered PINOY. He was born in Switzerland but his parents entered his birth certificate in the Philippines’ NSO… Hmmmm. Great foresight mom and dad!
7
Barako Bulls
(via a SLR trade for Gaby Espinas)
Ogie Menor
Will he be the rookie who would get the most playing time? With Barako Bulls’ revamp, Menor could find himself a vital part of the squad… who by the way vehemently DENIES that SMART GILAS will be integrating with them for the coming season as the bailout plan for the financially troubled Photokina Franchise. (source: Tony Chua) IF we do see a Gilas-Barako Bulls merger… I wonder if Menor will still play, specially after he decided against signing with the SBP backed developmental squad.
8
Ginebra
Chris Timberlake
I like this. They do need a steady pure point guard back up. There are rumors of trades which involve Artadi, and getting Timberlake increases the possibility. BTW, let’s all pray for his brother who’s battling with cancer. I swear Chris is such a nice guy.
9
Burger King
Ronnie Matias
This is one guy who coach Yeng would love to have in his lineup. He could be the next bruiser ala Homer Se!
10
San Miguel Beer
James Sena
SMB got a hardworking (semi) big guy who can come off the bench and defend big and small. Something they needed with Ping gone. There are a couple of guys expiring and are negotiating for a higher salary comin’ off a championship. Some might not get renewed because they need to make room for Danny S in their pay roll and they can only squeeze in a rookie they’re not obligated to pay as much.
11
Sta. Lucia
Mark Benitez
Did this surprise you? He played well in the rookie camp, I guess Coach Boyet still need more than just a Gaby Espinas to cover the wing.
12
Barako Bull
Benedict Fernandez
Mico Halili: Part of his contract includes a supply of hair spray and wax… Hahaha.
But seriously, I always thought that Bene would be picked because he emerged as one of the finest 1 – 2 guards from last season’s PBL. He’s got guts (not just because of the pimpin’ hairstyle) and he was one of the go-to guys in a team full of talent. That says a lot about how capable he is.
13
Barako Bull
Edwin Asoro
A lot of people thought he’d go in the first round because of his notoriety as a bruiser in the collegiate and amateur levels. After the draft, he was kicking back with Coach Ariel and a lot of heavy bombers
14
Coke
(Got this from BK)
Francis Allera
I swear I heard some girls scream. He's got lots of work to do to not be the next Lawrence Bonus.
15
Rain or Shine
Marcy Arellano
He made his intentions of going for the draft as early as last year, and was one who turned his back on the Smart Gilas offer. Talking to a lot of coaches, they all had reservations about him. What’s interesting is that Coach Caloy always gets good 2nd round draft picks – Ryan Arana, Jireh Ibanes, and TY Tang. Marcy, you’re next.
16
Alaska
Sean Co
Alaska was already nearing the tip of their salary cap. I wonder if they’ll make room for a Sean Co when they’ve already benched some MUCH better collegiate stars than him
17
Sta. Lucia
Lamont Waters
It was great seeing Kelly Williams after a 3 month long battle with a blood disorder. His weight gain was noticeable but he’ll be reporting for practice tomorrow and KWill will soon be back in flight. He’ll have his wife’s brother Lamont Waters to work out with… Remember when SLR took pride in having an all Filipino lineup. Well, good thing Lamont is really trying so hard to speak, act and BE Pinoy. Good for him. He could be the next Rudy Hatfield.
18
Talk and Text
Kevin White
This is the only pick TNT had in this year’s draft. Coach Chot wasn’t even sure if he was gonna exercise the right to use it… But he did, and they used it on the cat-quick Kevin White, the son of Jimmy Alapag’s elder sister. Kevin’s been practicing with Talk and Text for a while now and Coach Chot likes him enough. But again, that 5 Filam rule. TNT is just not willing to give up any of their current Filams. Hmmmmm.
19
Ginebra
Orly Daroya
Orly Daroya is so versatile, so hardworking. He’s shown tremendous range in the amateurs and in the draft camp. He was really one of the hot names in the scrimmages. Not sure tho if Ginebra has any real use for him. (There are lots of trade rumors going around about this squad.)
20
Coke
(acquired from BK)
John Walsham
Whew! Better late than never!
Asst. Team manager got his wish of getting a 3-4
Draft Day Scenarios
Trades and transactions in the PBA have been burning internet forums and websites as fans intently follow player movements that could spell triumph or collapse for their favored teams. Coaches and management have been carefully studying their options, in the hopes of completing the needed pieces of their puzzle.
The Sta. Lucia Realtors are looking forward to MVP Kelly Williams joining them in practice week after the Draft as his therapy has been bearing good results. But still, head coach Boyet Fernandez says they’re in dire need of another post-up and wing presence.
“We’re not looking for a big guy who has to be a project. We need someone who can be ready to back up our big men, Marlou and Dennis. Someone who can be valuable on defense and rebounding”.
This brings sense to the Realtors’ reported Gabby Espinas acquisition and yielding their first round pick to Barako Bull. This means they’re not looking heavily in the draft.
Fernandez’s Rain or Shine counterpart Caloy Garcia shares Japeth Aguilar and Rico Maeirhofer could be called up first. Depending on who Burger King will choose as third overall, they’ll have great use for a Jervy Cruz or a Chris Ross. It’s the Elasto Painters’ second round pick that they’re studying really hard. They’ve been very lucky with their past second round picks like Ryan Arana, TY Tang, and even Jireh Ibanes. They might use the 14th overall pick to buff up their frontline.
Barangay Ginebra, which will pick 7th and 17th, is looking forward to the return of Mark Caguioa and Junthy Valenzuela. They renewed all the expiring players except for Macky Escalona, Jun Jun Cabatu and JR Aquino. Coach Jong Uichico revealed the Kings are only about 4-5 players deep and the rest of the available draft applicants are complimentary players. He added they’re full in the 2-3 positions, so they’re “looking for either another point guard who can back up JayJay Helterbrand, a 3-man who can defend big, and another go-to big guy aside from Eric Menk”.
Coach Jong added their dilemma is that they’re “so low in the draft all the time, (they) can’t get quality picks and nobody wants to trade”. Michael Burscher is one they see as the next possible big man available when their turn comes in Draft, but they just don’t feel he’s a go-to guy.
Alaska head coach Tim Cone is aware the Top 3 picks are pretty much locked in, so they can’t exactly pick the best available athlete or player by the time they select at fifth overall. They’ll likely end up picking a “need” player. Problem is they don’t exactly have a need.
“We have live contracts and we are already at the tip of our salary cap”, says coach Tim. “We’ve talked about trades to other teams but we don’t have space for a young rookie”.
When the Aces’ turn comes though, they will not get a point guard as finding a back up for LA Tenorio is last in their agenda, and they can’t get a Fil-Am because they’re already at the “5-Fil-Am limit.”
Same with Talk ‘N Text. Coach Chot Reyes is not willing to unload any of the Fil-Ams he has on his roster for any of the Fil-Ams in the pool. That dampens the chances of Kevin White to play alongside his uncle Jimmy Alapag. With only an 18th overall pick to ponder upon, if the Tropang Texters draft at all, they know that they just need to settle with the best talent still available. They can’t be choosy. But they would love to have another big guy.
Wanting a few big guys are the Coca Cola Tigers. Although they don’t have a pick in the upcoming draft, they’ll be heavily looking into the free agency market (so the undrafted need not lose hope). They have six players with expiring contracts; Nic Belasco, Mark Telan, Ronjay Buenafe, Kalani Feriera, Rodney Santos and Lawrence Bonus. They’ve always needed to beef up their 2, 3, and 4 positions, according to assistant team manager Gerad Francisco.
Barako Bull seems bent on keeping Chad Alonzo, Paolo Hubalde, Leo Najorda, Jojo Duncil, Warren Ibanez, Alex Crisano, and Magnum Membrere. The Energy Boosters also acquired Rob Wainwright and Mac Andaya. They’re looking to fill every position so they’ll use their three chances of drafting on Sunday, with players like Ogie Menor and James Sena being heavily considered. Like the Tigers, coach Leo Isaac will scrutinize the free agency market to add force to their squad which finished dead last in the two conferences this past season.
Newly-crowned Fiesta Conference champion San Miguel Beer meanwhile is busy negotiating contracts of its expiring players like Chris Calaguio, Sam Eman, Wesley Gonzalez, Jonas Villanueva and Olsen Racela. They expect Danny Seigle to report for practice by next week after having recovered from a slipped disc injury. They’ll need him because Jay Washington had a knee operation and will not be able to see action for about three months. They’ve also dealt Marc Pingris and Ken Bono to Burger King. So for the Beermen’s pick at No. 9, they’ll be expected to look for a “stopper, a role player who can defend a big and a small”, according to assistant coach Freddie Abuda.
Purefoods head coach Ryan Gregorio has three top caliber players to choose from for its third overall pick (actually second as the No. 2 pick isn’t owned by anybody) -- Rico Maeirhofer, Chris Ross and Jervy Cruz.
“It’s hard to pass up on these guys, but it all depends on who will best fit in the scheme,” explained Gregorio who lauded the talents, adding “Maeirhofer can play multiple positions and can defend, Ross is the most athletic point guard, and Cruz earned his mark in the UAAP and PBL”. Having Marc Pingris back via a Burger King trade for their first and second round picks next year will be a factor to consider.
During the final day of the Rookie Camp, Burger King assistant coach Junel Baculi reaffirmed that Japeth Aguilar would be the No. 1 overall pick.
“Rumors that he’ll only be in the team for only a conference or two is unfounded”, Baculi said. “The Lina franchise wants to win a championship, for the record”.
The Whoppers did lose the experienced and ultra athletic Arwind Santos to San Miguel Beer, but the height and heft of Aguilar will certainly boost their hunt for a crown. They have two more choices in the first round, which should address their needs and fill the serious void Santos left.
Incoming PBA Chairman and Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez relayed in a text that “if Rico Maeirhofer is still available at number 3, he will also play for us. If Ross will be the number 3, there’s a good chance that he will be traded to Coke in the exchange for their first round pick next year”. This development can also determine which players Coke will renew or trade.
Though they are still evaluating the prospects, Burger King also sees the value of picking an Ogie Menor or an Edwin Asoro for the small forward position.
“They’re both very athletic and young which fits their rugged and physical brand of play” observed Baculi.
The Whoppers also have two more picks in the second round, which if used, will leave them with 16 total players to choose from for their 2009-2010 lineup.
Expect teams to continue to wheel and deal on Draft day and beyond to find the best players they need. But a great athlete once said “finding good players is easy. Getting them to play as a team is another story”. (PBH)
The Sta. Lucia Realtors are looking forward to MVP Kelly Williams joining them in practice week after the Draft as his therapy has been bearing good results. But still, head coach Boyet Fernandez says they’re in dire need of another post-up and wing presence.
“We’re not looking for a big guy who has to be a project. We need someone who can be ready to back up our big men, Marlou and Dennis. Someone who can be valuable on defense and rebounding”.
This brings sense to the Realtors’ reported Gabby Espinas acquisition and yielding their first round pick to Barako Bull. This means they’re not looking heavily in the draft.
Fernandez’s Rain or Shine counterpart Caloy Garcia shares Japeth Aguilar and Rico Maeirhofer could be called up first. Depending on who Burger King will choose as third overall, they’ll have great use for a Jervy Cruz or a Chris Ross. It’s the Elasto Painters’ second round pick that they’re studying really hard. They’ve been very lucky with their past second round picks like Ryan Arana, TY Tang, and even Jireh Ibanes. They might use the 14th overall pick to buff up their frontline.
Barangay Ginebra, which will pick 7th and 17th, is looking forward to the return of Mark Caguioa and Junthy Valenzuela. They renewed all the expiring players except for Macky Escalona, Jun Jun Cabatu and JR Aquino. Coach Jong Uichico revealed the Kings are only about 4-5 players deep and the rest of the available draft applicants are complimentary players. He added they’re full in the 2-3 positions, so they’re “looking for either another point guard who can back up JayJay Helterbrand, a 3-man who can defend big, and another go-to big guy aside from Eric Menk”.
Coach Jong added their dilemma is that they’re “so low in the draft all the time, (they) can’t get quality picks and nobody wants to trade”. Michael Burscher is one they see as the next possible big man available when their turn comes in Draft, but they just don’t feel he’s a go-to guy.
Alaska head coach Tim Cone is aware the Top 3 picks are pretty much locked in, so they can’t exactly pick the best available athlete or player by the time they select at fifth overall. They’ll likely end up picking a “need” player. Problem is they don’t exactly have a need.
“We have live contracts and we are already at the tip of our salary cap”, says coach Tim. “We’ve talked about trades to other teams but we don’t have space for a young rookie”.
When the Aces’ turn comes though, they will not get a point guard as finding a back up for LA Tenorio is last in their agenda, and they can’t get a Fil-Am because they’re already at the “5-Fil-Am limit.”
Same with Talk ‘N Text. Coach Chot Reyes is not willing to unload any of the Fil-Ams he has on his roster for any of the Fil-Ams in the pool. That dampens the chances of Kevin White to play alongside his uncle Jimmy Alapag. With only an 18th overall pick to ponder upon, if the Tropang Texters draft at all, they know that they just need to settle with the best talent still available. They can’t be choosy. But they would love to have another big guy.
Wanting a few big guys are the Coca Cola Tigers. Although they don’t have a pick in the upcoming draft, they’ll be heavily looking into the free agency market (so the undrafted need not lose hope). They have six players with expiring contracts; Nic Belasco, Mark Telan, Ronjay Buenafe, Kalani Feriera, Rodney Santos and Lawrence Bonus. They’ve always needed to beef up their 2, 3, and 4 positions, according to assistant team manager Gerad Francisco.
Barako Bull seems bent on keeping Chad Alonzo, Paolo Hubalde, Leo Najorda, Jojo Duncil, Warren Ibanez, Alex Crisano, and Magnum Membrere. The Energy Boosters also acquired Rob Wainwright and Mac Andaya. They’re looking to fill every position so they’ll use their three chances of drafting on Sunday, with players like Ogie Menor and James Sena being heavily considered. Like the Tigers, coach Leo Isaac will scrutinize the free agency market to add force to their squad which finished dead last in the two conferences this past season.
Newly-crowned Fiesta Conference champion San Miguel Beer meanwhile is busy negotiating contracts of its expiring players like Chris Calaguio, Sam Eman, Wesley Gonzalez, Jonas Villanueva and Olsen Racela. They expect Danny Seigle to report for practice by next week after having recovered from a slipped disc injury. They’ll need him because Jay Washington had a knee operation and will not be able to see action for about three months. They’ve also dealt Marc Pingris and Ken Bono to Burger King. So for the Beermen’s pick at No. 9, they’ll be expected to look for a “stopper, a role player who can defend a big and a small”, according to assistant coach Freddie Abuda.
Purefoods head coach Ryan Gregorio has three top caliber players to choose from for its third overall pick (actually second as the No. 2 pick isn’t owned by anybody) -- Rico Maeirhofer, Chris Ross and Jervy Cruz.
“It’s hard to pass up on these guys, but it all depends on who will best fit in the scheme,” explained Gregorio who lauded the talents, adding “Maeirhofer can play multiple positions and can defend, Ross is the most athletic point guard, and Cruz earned his mark in the UAAP and PBL”. Having Marc Pingris back via a Burger King trade for their first and second round picks next year will be a factor to consider.
During the final day of the Rookie Camp, Burger King assistant coach Junel Baculi reaffirmed that Japeth Aguilar would be the No. 1 overall pick.
“Rumors that he’ll only be in the team for only a conference or two is unfounded”, Baculi said. “The Lina franchise wants to win a championship, for the record”.
The Whoppers did lose the experienced and ultra athletic Arwind Santos to San Miguel Beer, but the height and heft of Aguilar will certainly boost their hunt for a crown. They have two more choices in the first round, which should address their needs and fill the serious void Santos left.
Incoming PBA Chairman and Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez relayed in a text that “if Rico Maeirhofer is still available at number 3, he will also play for us. If Ross will be the number 3, there’s a good chance that he will be traded to Coke in the exchange for their first round pick next year”. This development can also determine which players Coke will renew or trade.
Though they are still evaluating the prospects, Burger King also sees the value of picking an Ogie Menor or an Edwin Asoro for the small forward position.
“They’re both very athletic and young which fits their rugged and physical brand of play” observed Baculi.
The Whoppers also have two more picks in the second round, which if used, will leave them with 16 total players to choose from for their 2009-2010 lineup.
Expect teams to continue to wheel and deal on Draft day and beyond to find the best players they need. But a great athlete once said “finding good players is easy. Getting them to play as a team is another story”. (PBH)
UNDER THE RADAR
There is such a wealth of young talents trying to penetrate the PBA this coming Draft day that it becomes arduous to keep track of the prospects. Japeth Aguilar, Rico Maeirhofer, Chris Ross, Jervy Cruz, Ogie Menor and others make up an inventory of players already part of the basketball fan’s consciousness, stars of the amateur and the semi-pro ranks included. But what about the ones who are under the radar? The darkhorses’ fans might not know much about yet. The next Topex Robinson, Mark Yee, Jeff Chan.
Here are some of them, not necessarily in a particular order.
Kevin White is a 25-year-old Fil-Am who is scouted to be a strong point guard, quick with a nice outside touch. At 5-11, he’s touted to be a taller version of his uncle Jimmy Alapag.
Gian Malasig was raised in New Jersey, but was born in Laoag and moved to the US when he was nine. He went to Berkley College which is a Division III NCAA program. This 6-3 forward is raring to showcase his wares.
From Anaheim, California, Golden West College’s 6-0 1/2 guard Jonathan Uyloan sees himself as an unselfish player who strives to make his teammates better. This 25-year-old once played with Sta. Lucia’s Ryan Reyes in the US and is also a close friend of Lance Convento, who will be staying in the U.S. to nurse a stress fracture on his spine. Convento will be missing this year’s draft as well as fellow PBL teammate Josh Vanlandingham who secured his Bureau of Immigration recognition but the Department of Justice didn’t affirm it pending submission of more documents.
A high-leaping 6-foot-2 from Bicol, Hafer Mondragon, is determined to follow in the footsteps of his former Liga Pilipinas teammate Mark Yee who has served as an inspiration to many hopefuls like himself.
Also from the same semi-pro team is former Red Warrior Jorel Canizares who is a speedster and a potent shooter but underlines his value on defense as a 6-1 3/4 guard.
Lamont Waters is a name that might come up. He’s the brother of Kelly William’s wife. This 28-year-old banger also saw action in Liga Pilipinas and according to sports anchor Anthony Suntay, he’s a Rudy Hatfield-type who’s very athletic and aggressive for a 6-3 forward.
Chris Viardo claims to be the first ever Filipino to play professional basketball in Germany, where he was born. He’s a already second-time draft applicant as he wasn’t able to complete his documents last year. Chris played for the Division 1 and Division 2 leagues in Cologne for five years where he learned and mastered the triangle system. No wonder he’s been comfortable practicing with Alaska since January.
Half-Filipino, half-American Charlie Bolias of Cavite who is a product of St. Francis of Assisi, could be considered for his speed and tenacity.
Same with Gerry Orera who plays the 2-3 position and was with Ken Bono in Adamson when they reached the UAAP Final Four. Bolias is 6-2 while Orera is half an inch shorter.
Ramsey Williams at 29 sees this Draft as his last chance. He’s played with various PBL teams and also in Liga after he graduated from the University of Hawaii. He came before Jared Dillinger’s time. He boasts of being a solid leader and can use his veteran smarts to the hilt.
6-4 forward Kim Macanig is also one of the more senior applicants who previously played for PCU and is remembered for his work ethic, inside presence, rebounding skills, and perimeter shooting.
Another former Dolphin hoping to break in to the pros is Lee Boliver who graduated in 2007. He’s aggressive, a shooter, and is quick on his feet, just like his hero Willie Miller.
Allan Evangelista starred in UST till he graduated in 2006, and he made the Liga squad of Pampanga who saw a lot in the 6-1 versatile forward.
Jonathan Pinera is a 6-3 center-forward who could be a great defender as what he showed in the amateurs.
Another interesting find could be Michael Burstcher who has had numerous PBL and Liga stints. The 24- year-old Filipino-Swiss big man has laudable stamina, defense and agility and is a legit 6-5. He’s one of the taller guys available.
There are plenty of others in the pool of 53 who are in the hunt for a ticket to greener pastures. Their common ground is blood, sweat, tears and a dream which all started when they were young and impressionable. This is a critical point in their lives. Will they still be under the radar come Draft day or will they rise to the occasion? Who among them are the sleepers in the Draft and will provide the surprises?
Their stories continue.
Here are some of them, not necessarily in a particular order.
Kevin White is a 25-year-old Fil-Am who is scouted to be a strong point guard, quick with a nice outside touch. At 5-11, he’s touted to be a taller version of his uncle Jimmy Alapag.
Gian Malasig was raised in New Jersey, but was born in Laoag and moved to the US when he was nine. He went to Berkley College which is a Division III NCAA program. This 6-3 forward is raring to showcase his wares.
From Anaheim, California, Golden West College’s 6-0 1/2 guard Jonathan Uyloan sees himself as an unselfish player who strives to make his teammates better. This 25-year-old once played with Sta. Lucia’s Ryan Reyes in the US and is also a close friend of Lance Convento, who will be staying in the U.S. to nurse a stress fracture on his spine. Convento will be missing this year’s draft as well as fellow PBL teammate Josh Vanlandingham who secured his Bureau of Immigration recognition but the Department of Justice didn’t affirm it pending submission of more documents.
A high-leaping 6-foot-2 from Bicol, Hafer Mondragon, is determined to follow in the footsteps of his former Liga Pilipinas teammate Mark Yee who has served as an inspiration to many hopefuls like himself.
Also from the same semi-pro team is former Red Warrior Jorel Canizares who is a speedster and a potent shooter but underlines his value on defense as a 6-1 3/4 guard.
Lamont Waters is a name that might come up. He’s the brother of Kelly William’s wife. This 28-year-old banger also saw action in Liga Pilipinas and according to sports anchor Anthony Suntay, he’s a Rudy Hatfield-type who’s very athletic and aggressive for a 6-3 forward.
Chris Viardo claims to be the first ever Filipino to play professional basketball in Germany, where he was born. He’s a already second-time draft applicant as he wasn’t able to complete his documents last year. Chris played for the Division 1 and Division 2 leagues in Cologne for five years where he learned and mastered the triangle system. No wonder he’s been comfortable practicing with Alaska since January.
Half-Filipino, half-American Charlie Bolias of Cavite who is a product of St. Francis of Assisi, could be considered for his speed and tenacity.
Same with Gerry Orera who plays the 2-3 position and was with Ken Bono in Adamson when they reached the UAAP Final Four. Bolias is 6-2 while Orera is half an inch shorter.
Ramsey Williams at 29 sees this Draft as his last chance. He’s played with various PBL teams and also in Liga after he graduated from the University of Hawaii. He came before Jared Dillinger’s time. He boasts of being a solid leader and can use his veteran smarts to the hilt.
6-4 forward Kim Macanig is also one of the more senior applicants who previously played for PCU and is remembered for his work ethic, inside presence, rebounding skills, and perimeter shooting.
Another former Dolphin hoping to break in to the pros is Lee Boliver who graduated in 2007. He’s aggressive, a shooter, and is quick on his feet, just like his hero Willie Miller.
Allan Evangelista starred in UST till he graduated in 2006, and he made the Liga squad of Pampanga who saw a lot in the 6-1 versatile forward.
Jonathan Pinera is a 6-3 center-forward who could be a great defender as what he showed in the amateurs.
Another interesting find could be Michael Burstcher who has had numerous PBL and Liga stints. The 24- year-old Filipino-Swiss big man has laudable stamina, defense and agility and is a legit 6-5. He’s one of the taller guys available.
There are plenty of others in the pool of 53 who are in the hunt for a ticket to greener pastures. Their common ground is blood, sweat, tears and a dream which all started when they were young and impressionable. This is a critical point in their lives. Will they still be under the radar come Draft day or will they rise to the occasion? Who among them are the sleepers in the Draft and will provide the surprises?
Their stories continue.
THE KAIZEN IN JONAS VILLANUEVA
During a team gathering, Jonas Villanueva, intently listened to the priest’ lecture on Kaizen and he was moved. So moved was he that he sought to improve his career, his life.
Rewind.
After the Second World War, Japan was pummeled to the ground and hopes of rising from the ashes seemed dim. With the impetus to ascend from annihilation, the Japanese adopted a philosophy that has elevated them to a global economic powerhouse: Kaizen.
“Kai” literally means to change, and “zen” translated is good. It means improvement, a philosophy that focuses on continuous enhancement throughout all aspects of life. As a business strategy, Kaizen calls for never-ending efforts for progress involving everyone in the organization, from the President of the company, to the lowly laborer. But in essence, it’s a concept that can be applied in every person’s life.
Born to a family with 11 children, Jonas Villanueva is the middle child, being the sixth-born and wedged right in between elder siblings who are professionals, and siblings who are still studying. Parents, Gerry and Edith Villanueva of Bgy. Bunlo, Bocaue, Bulacan have produced a lawyer, a doctor, a banker, an entrepreneur, an engineer, and now most recently a Finals MVP and Most Improved Player in the PBA. Parents were very stringent about studying and they had so dedicated their lives to ensuring that their brood would get good education. All those years toiling over numerous businesses like bakery, poultry, wood depot and even fireworks just to bring up the children have ensured an optimistic future.
“We saw how much our parents sacrificed, so in return, we also worked hard” said Jonas who harked back about how his dad really paved the way for his love for sports which he revealed wasn’t first basketball.
“I actually liked boxing” he reminisced. But to dissuade him, his father had him fight one elder brother at a time a few rounds each, till he got to the eldest, tallest brother who dropped him. That TKO knocked some sense into him and had him enrolling in his first summer basketball camp when he was 9. Full of zip was the young, athletic Jonas that when the game got competitive at age 11, he started visualizing and setting goals. It was then that he knew he wanted to become a professional basketball player.
As a high school freshman, he admits to being a slow starter. He started as a bench player behind phenoms like Magnum Membrere and worked his way up. Even before he knew the concept, Jonas was already living the Kaizen way.
But an invitation from his Tita Belen Kuwaye residing in Los Angeles came about that had him continue his secondary education there till he went to Sta. Monica Jr. College for Business Management. He never stopped playing, never stopped mastering his game. He also went through a transformation as a Christian with the teachings of the Faith in Christ church which enriched his life and strengthened his belief in God.
While on vacation in the Philippines, September 11 happened and new Homeland Security acts made it difficult for him to go back to the US. He therefore found himself in the roster of the Far Eastern University Tamaraws. What was first seen as a temporary setback became a true blessing in disguise. Jonas was raised to make the most out of situations, and so he did. Along the way, he even bagged the heart of Jessica Gallegos, a beautiful commercial model turned preschool teacher who also comes from a litter of dozen kids and is as zealous as he is about life and the future.
Fast forward to the 2007 PBA Draft when then Magnolia Beverage Masters drafted him 9th overall. But instead of riding a high horse, his confidence went down the drain as he sat on the bench for most part of his rookie season playing behind veteran playmaker Olsen Racela and the steadfast LA Tenorio, then a Beerman.
Kaizen is based on making little changes on a regular basis to improve productivity and effectiveness, and with this philosophy, he focused, he worked, he prepared to make things better. That was the goal.
But he was fazed when Mike Cortez came after being led to think that he’d be next in line when Tenorio got traded. He actually thought management didn’t see much in him but he was absolutely wrong. In fact they gave him the chance to take a more active role in the all-Filipino conference in his sophomore season but Jonas himself said he was “lacking leadership skills and defense”. He was in a tough situation knowing that in a team like San Miguel, one won’t get too many chances because of the plethora of talent ready to step in anytime.
Enter the Bonfire. BonBon Custodio was confident, was aggressive going to the hoop, and was deemed the next in line. Jonas had to keep at it and not give up.
Kaizen is based on making transformations anywhere it can be made. And so, Jonas worked hard to transform himself to a take-charge player just in time for the 2009 Motolite Fiesta Conference and while the Cool Cat was nursing an ACL injury. With the Beermen playing without an import in their conference-debut, Jonas Villanueva had his breakout game against the Alaska Aces securing an electrifying and career-high 27 points which came with six rebounds and two assists en route to a 93-89 win for SMB. He revealed he was secretly wishing for coach Siot Tanquingcen to throw him a compliment, but later he realized, no compliments needed to be exchanged.
The ultimate approval came in the form of a Most Improved Player award which was a surprise even to him. “There were so many who improved their games from (Barako Bull’s) Gabby Espinas to (Burger King’s) JR Quinahan so I am so grateful for the award. It made me want to work harder”.
“Things didn’t happen overnight. My success in this past conference was a result of my work in my rookie season” beamed the Beerman who was riding on the crest of the team’s triumphant wave all the way to the Finals.
“It was tough to play against Ginebra with the crowd and playing against the best point guard in the league. I was thinking win or lose, I’m going to learn something. I just have to give it my all and work hard”, shared Villanueva.
Finals Game 1, from a time out with a minute left, the broken play intended for Jay Washington saw Jonas with the ball and he decided to drive hard to the basket, cutting Ginebra’s lead by 2 in a game the Beermen eventually lost. But despite losing that initial finals chapter, it was a defining moment for the first time finalist.
“I realized I can play at this level, and that set the tone for the series for me. I realized I can make good decisions”.
That attitude eventually saw him hoist the Finals MVP award after an arduous 7-game crusade, in front of a blissful team, a jovial fan base, a proud family and a beaming girlfriend whom he intends to share the rest of his life with.
Back to Kaizen.
One of the challenges in adopting the kaizen strategy is assuring its continuity. When something new is introduced, success occurs, then fades. But it’s difficult to imagine how success will fade away in Jonas who is addicted to winning, hard work, and living the dream. Jonas lives and breathes the “positive change philosophy”, from the time he stopped boxing to the time he kept fighting. The saying goes “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Kaizen takes that to another level; “do it better, improve it even if it isn’t broken, because if we don’t, we can’t compete with those who do”.
This is the strategy of Jonas Villanueva, 2009 Motolite Fiesta Conference Finals MVP and the 2008-09 season’s Most Improved Player
Rewind.
After the Second World War, Japan was pummeled to the ground and hopes of rising from the ashes seemed dim. With the impetus to ascend from annihilation, the Japanese adopted a philosophy that has elevated them to a global economic powerhouse: Kaizen.
“Kai” literally means to change, and “zen” translated is good. It means improvement, a philosophy that focuses on continuous enhancement throughout all aspects of life. As a business strategy, Kaizen calls for never-ending efforts for progress involving everyone in the organization, from the President of the company, to the lowly laborer. But in essence, it’s a concept that can be applied in every person’s life.
Born to a family with 11 children, Jonas Villanueva is the middle child, being the sixth-born and wedged right in between elder siblings who are professionals, and siblings who are still studying. Parents, Gerry and Edith Villanueva of Bgy. Bunlo, Bocaue, Bulacan have produced a lawyer, a doctor, a banker, an entrepreneur, an engineer, and now most recently a Finals MVP and Most Improved Player in the PBA. Parents were very stringent about studying and they had so dedicated their lives to ensuring that their brood would get good education. All those years toiling over numerous businesses like bakery, poultry, wood depot and even fireworks just to bring up the children have ensured an optimistic future.
“We saw how much our parents sacrificed, so in return, we also worked hard” said Jonas who harked back about how his dad really paved the way for his love for sports which he revealed wasn’t first basketball.
“I actually liked boxing” he reminisced. But to dissuade him, his father had him fight one elder brother at a time a few rounds each, till he got to the eldest, tallest brother who dropped him. That TKO knocked some sense into him and had him enrolling in his first summer basketball camp when he was 9. Full of zip was the young, athletic Jonas that when the game got competitive at age 11, he started visualizing and setting goals. It was then that he knew he wanted to become a professional basketball player.
As a high school freshman, he admits to being a slow starter. He started as a bench player behind phenoms like Magnum Membrere and worked his way up. Even before he knew the concept, Jonas was already living the Kaizen way.
But an invitation from his Tita Belen Kuwaye residing in Los Angeles came about that had him continue his secondary education there till he went to Sta. Monica Jr. College for Business Management. He never stopped playing, never stopped mastering his game. He also went through a transformation as a Christian with the teachings of the Faith in Christ church which enriched his life and strengthened his belief in God.
While on vacation in the Philippines, September 11 happened and new Homeland Security acts made it difficult for him to go back to the US. He therefore found himself in the roster of the Far Eastern University Tamaraws. What was first seen as a temporary setback became a true blessing in disguise. Jonas was raised to make the most out of situations, and so he did. Along the way, he even bagged the heart of Jessica Gallegos, a beautiful commercial model turned preschool teacher who also comes from a litter of dozen kids and is as zealous as he is about life and the future.
Fast forward to the 2007 PBA Draft when then Magnolia Beverage Masters drafted him 9th overall. But instead of riding a high horse, his confidence went down the drain as he sat on the bench for most part of his rookie season playing behind veteran playmaker Olsen Racela and the steadfast LA Tenorio, then a Beerman.
Kaizen is based on making little changes on a regular basis to improve productivity and effectiveness, and with this philosophy, he focused, he worked, he prepared to make things better. That was the goal.
But he was fazed when Mike Cortez came after being led to think that he’d be next in line when Tenorio got traded. He actually thought management didn’t see much in him but he was absolutely wrong. In fact they gave him the chance to take a more active role in the all-Filipino conference in his sophomore season but Jonas himself said he was “lacking leadership skills and defense”. He was in a tough situation knowing that in a team like San Miguel, one won’t get too many chances because of the plethora of talent ready to step in anytime.
Enter the Bonfire. BonBon Custodio was confident, was aggressive going to the hoop, and was deemed the next in line. Jonas had to keep at it and not give up.
Kaizen is based on making transformations anywhere it can be made. And so, Jonas worked hard to transform himself to a take-charge player just in time for the 2009 Motolite Fiesta Conference and while the Cool Cat was nursing an ACL injury. With the Beermen playing without an import in their conference-debut, Jonas Villanueva had his breakout game against the Alaska Aces securing an electrifying and career-high 27 points which came with six rebounds and two assists en route to a 93-89 win for SMB. He revealed he was secretly wishing for coach Siot Tanquingcen to throw him a compliment, but later he realized, no compliments needed to be exchanged.
The ultimate approval came in the form of a Most Improved Player award which was a surprise even to him. “There were so many who improved their games from (Barako Bull’s) Gabby Espinas to (Burger King’s) JR Quinahan so I am so grateful for the award. It made me want to work harder”.
“Things didn’t happen overnight. My success in this past conference was a result of my work in my rookie season” beamed the Beerman who was riding on the crest of the team’s triumphant wave all the way to the Finals.
“It was tough to play against Ginebra with the crowd and playing against the best point guard in the league. I was thinking win or lose, I’m going to learn something. I just have to give it my all and work hard”, shared Villanueva.
Finals Game 1, from a time out with a minute left, the broken play intended for Jay Washington saw Jonas with the ball and he decided to drive hard to the basket, cutting Ginebra’s lead by 2 in a game the Beermen eventually lost. But despite losing that initial finals chapter, it was a defining moment for the first time finalist.
“I realized I can play at this level, and that set the tone for the series for me. I realized I can make good decisions”.
That attitude eventually saw him hoist the Finals MVP award after an arduous 7-game crusade, in front of a blissful team, a jovial fan base, a proud family and a beaming girlfriend whom he intends to share the rest of his life with.
Back to Kaizen.
One of the challenges in adopting the kaizen strategy is assuring its continuity. When something new is introduced, success occurs, then fades. But it’s difficult to imagine how success will fade away in Jonas who is addicted to winning, hard work, and living the dream. Jonas lives and breathes the “positive change philosophy”, from the time he stopped boxing to the time he kept fighting. The saying goes “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Kaizen takes that to another level; “do it better, improve it even if it isn’t broken, because if we don’t, we can’t compete with those who do”.
This is the strategy of Jonas Villanueva, 2009 Motolite Fiesta Conference Finals MVP and the 2008-09 season’s Most Improved Player
JAPETH AGUILAR'S CROSSROADS
An American political advisor by the name of Anthony Robbins once said “You are now at a crossroads. This is your opportunity to make the most important decision you will ever make. Forget your past. Who are you now? Don't think about who you have been. Who have you decided to become? Make this decision consciously. Make it carefully. Make it powerfully.”
These might be words that Japeth Aguilar need to ponder upon as he makes what could be the most important decision of his life. Will he enter the PBA, try his luck with the NBDL and maybe make it to the NBA, or play for flag and country – either for the Powerade Team Pilipinas or the Smart Gilas Developmental team?
He made a good account for himself in his first spectacle during the RP team’s electrifying tune up game against the visiting Soldiers for Christ squad last July 2. He immediately got the crowd on their feet with a slam and a couple of ego-shattering blocks! Although Aguilar himself says he didn’t get his rhythm going until the second half and gave his performance a 7 out of 10 because he wanted to churn things up more on the offensive, he made fans eat up all the hype. Skeptics were made believers as he made his defensive presence felt and had everyone salivating at the skills he brought home.
Japeth recalls making an easy decision to leave for the United States to play for the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers three years ago. Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to play for a school with 40 conference championships which is the third most in NCAA history? Already, Japeth is etched in history as the first Philippine-born player to be recruited by a Division-1 program. Three years under Coach Darrin Horn and Coach Ken McDonald taught him so much on preparation for the game, putting in the extra work, and discipline. Needless to say he also came back with more muscle, height, speed, and flare.With baited breath, interested parties wait for his decision.
Japeth has numerous things to consider. His family for one.
His father, former PBA player Peter Aguilar has truly nourished his children’s love for the game. Even the younger Micah played for Assumption. Japeth is filled with memories of him and his father shooting around, getting pointers on his technique, and always getting grilled on the importance of hard work.
“My dad pushed me and is my main motivator”, he shared. Definitely what his parents think weigh heavily. Being the loving son that he is, Japeth also revealed that he wishes to help his family out.
Entering the pros may be the way to go for that. The rookie salary is already a bit more than what the NBDL would offer, and then endorsement offers could come to play and other money-making opportunities. Not that his family is needing. Japeth just envisions himself giving back to his parents.
Undoubtedly he’ll make himself available for the National Team. But should he go pro, transitioning to the Smart Gilas squad may be shelved.
Another factor Japeth would consider is the possibility of being the first Filipino in the NBA.
That would mean going back to the US for the National Basketball Developmental League. Japeth would be perfect for the NBDL because of his youth and raw talent. They see a lot of potential in the 24 year- old project, preferring him over the senior (even more talented) players who would be too old by the time they finish the NBDL program. No wonder he was mentioned on ESPN as one of the players that scouts are looking at. Japeth said “this is a chance of a lifetime”, so he might not want to pass it up.
There’s also the love factor.
Japeth is engaged to former Western Kentucky University varsity member Jessica Magley who finished Political Science and is currently taking up her masters degree. Is she willing to move here to the Philippines and suspend her pursuit of her own career? Japeth though truly believes that Jessica will support him in his decisions.
Japeth is at a crossroads in his life, in his career. He must “make it consciously. Make it carefully. Make it powerfully.”
These might be words that Japeth Aguilar need to ponder upon as he makes what could be the most important decision of his life. Will he enter the PBA, try his luck with the NBDL and maybe make it to the NBA, or play for flag and country – either for the Powerade Team Pilipinas or the Smart Gilas Developmental team?
He made a good account for himself in his first spectacle during the RP team’s electrifying tune up game against the visiting Soldiers for Christ squad last July 2. He immediately got the crowd on their feet with a slam and a couple of ego-shattering blocks! Although Aguilar himself says he didn’t get his rhythm going until the second half and gave his performance a 7 out of 10 because he wanted to churn things up more on the offensive, he made fans eat up all the hype. Skeptics were made believers as he made his defensive presence felt and had everyone salivating at the skills he brought home.
Japeth recalls making an easy decision to leave for the United States to play for the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers three years ago. Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to play for a school with 40 conference championships which is the third most in NCAA history? Already, Japeth is etched in history as the first Philippine-born player to be recruited by a Division-1 program. Three years under Coach Darrin Horn and Coach Ken McDonald taught him so much on preparation for the game, putting in the extra work, and discipline. Needless to say he also came back with more muscle, height, speed, and flare.With baited breath, interested parties wait for his decision.
Japeth has numerous things to consider. His family for one.
His father, former PBA player Peter Aguilar has truly nourished his children’s love for the game. Even the younger Micah played for Assumption. Japeth is filled with memories of him and his father shooting around, getting pointers on his technique, and always getting grilled on the importance of hard work.
“My dad pushed me and is my main motivator”, he shared. Definitely what his parents think weigh heavily. Being the loving son that he is, Japeth also revealed that he wishes to help his family out.
Entering the pros may be the way to go for that. The rookie salary is already a bit more than what the NBDL would offer, and then endorsement offers could come to play and other money-making opportunities. Not that his family is needing. Japeth just envisions himself giving back to his parents.
Undoubtedly he’ll make himself available for the National Team. But should he go pro, transitioning to the Smart Gilas squad may be shelved.
Another factor Japeth would consider is the possibility of being the first Filipino in the NBA.
That would mean going back to the US for the National Basketball Developmental League. Japeth would be perfect for the NBDL because of his youth and raw talent. They see a lot of potential in the 24 year- old project, preferring him over the senior (even more talented) players who would be too old by the time they finish the NBDL program. No wonder he was mentioned on ESPN as one of the players that scouts are looking at. Japeth said “this is a chance of a lifetime”, so he might not want to pass it up.
There’s also the love factor.
Japeth is engaged to former Western Kentucky University varsity member Jessica Magley who finished Political Science and is currently taking up her masters degree. Is she willing to move here to the Philippines and suspend her pursuit of her own career? Japeth though truly believes that Jessica will support him in his decisions.
Japeth is at a crossroads in his life, in his career. He must “make it consciously. Make it carefully. Make it powerfully.”
Racela vs. Tubid - Round 1?
An intense and animated matchup...
Tubid elbows Racela right smack on his face
Olsen checks the damage
Racela obviously pissed
Tubid confronts Racela.
They don't care that the ref's there...
Tubid's reasoning falling on deaf ears.... Talk to the hands!
Tubid: Pare, sorry na nge e. I didn't mean to hurt you.
Will we see them go at it again tonight?
Olsen checks the damage
Racela obviously pissed
Tubid confronts Racela.
Olsen basically was cussing him down as Ronald tried to explain his side and actually apologize.
They don't care that the ref's there...
Tubid's reasoning falling on deaf ears.... Talk to the hands!
Tubid: Pare, sorry na nge e. I didn't mean to hurt you.
Olsen: Hmmmpf!
Ref: Get your hands off him!
Will we see them go at it again tonight?
follow www.twitter.com/patriciahizon
Danny I. - the conclusion
Danny Ildefonso is penalized P30,000
Pingris fined P10,000
Both are suspended and will miss GAME 3.
Here's NBA's take on VERBAL FAN INTERFERENCE
Any spectator who verbally abuses players and/or coaches in a manner which, in the opinion of the game officials, interferes with the ability of a coach to communicate with his players during the game and/or huddles, will, at the direction of the crew chief, be given one warning by a building security officer. If the same spectator continues to behave in a like manner, the crew chief shall direct a building security officer to eject the spectator from the arena. (http://www.nba.com/analysis/rules_m.html?nav=ArticleList.)
I know we have a similar rule in the PBA.
The crew chief should've acted on the matter before it got out of hand... What do you think?
Mr. Nervadez probably is a respectable man, makes an honest living, and has a good family... We don't know who he really is, but the behavior he showed basically speaks volumes of his character.
Danny Ildefonso is one of the best players out there. He's actually a real nice guy if you get to talk to him, he's charitable (supports the Jesus Loves the Little Children Foundation and others), a good husband and father, and he's a competitor.
A lot of people will ofcourse say that Mr. Nervadez was asking for it and he should've been taught a lesson (tho I'm sure the trauma will linger for a loooooong time).
Many will argue that Danny I., and even Pingris had no right to rush to the stands. No matter how rude the fan got, they should've just walked away from it.
I'd like to know what you think.
Follow www.twitter.com/patriciahizon
Pingris fined P10,000
Both are suspended and will miss GAME 3.
Here's NBA's take on VERBAL FAN INTERFERENCE
Any spectator who verbally abuses players and/or coaches in a manner which, in the opinion of the game officials, interferes with the ability of a coach to communicate with his players during the game and/or huddles, will, at the direction of the crew chief, be given one warning by a building security officer. If the same spectator continues to behave in a like manner, the crew chief shall direct a building security officer to eject the spectator from the arena. (http://www.nba.com/analysis/rules_m.html?nav=ArticleList.)
I know we have a similar rule in the PBA.
The crew chief should've acted on the matter before it got out of hand... What do you think?
Mr. Nervadez probably is a respectable man, makes an honest living, and has a good family... We don't know who he really is, but the behavior he showed basically speaks volumes of his character.
Danny Ildefonso is one of the best players out there. He's actually a real nice guy if you get to talk to him, he's charitable (supports the Jesus Loves the Little Children Foundation and others), a good husband and father, and he's a competitor.
A lot of people will ofcourse say that Mr. Nervadez was asking for it and he should've been taught a lesson (tho I'm sure the trauma will linger for a loooooong time).
Many will argue that Danny I., and even Pingris had no right to rush to the stands. No matter how rude the fan got, they should've just walked away from it.
I'd like to know what you think.
Follow www.twitter.com/patriciahizon
Danny I. Part 6
Mr. Nervadez getting escorted out... I heard (just heard) that he cried... Don't know if there's any truth to that, but if I were a man who had the consequences of my acts blow up in my face and almost got massacred because of my sheer stupidity, I guess I'd cry too.
Look at:
-Coach Allan Caidic
- Cyrus Baguio and his shirt
-Pingris and his anger
- and Coach Jong.
- Ping was obviously still livid!!!! Even the junkyard Dawg needs to be reinforced by Freeman...(side note, Coach Jong in this photo is looking at Comm Barrios about to tell him what he thinks went wrong and how it could've been prevented)
Parting shot!
Danny I. Part 5
Danny I. was so strong that it took coach Art (who I heard got elbowed in the face twice by Pingris during the ordeal), Samigue Eman, and those buff (ish) Araneta security guys to stop him.
... oh and coach Pido. (where did he come from?)
Wesley, Bonbon (who's been sick) and Mick give the rowdy fan the evil eye, while Danny I is pulled back from the stands.
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